International Tea Day: 21 May & Tea-Time Ideas

Mein Shop Admin
Internationaler Tag des Tees: 21. Mai & Teegenuss

A warm cup, a familiar aroma and time for a conversation: International Tea Day on 21 May connects the pleasure of tea with the people behind it. The official UN observance is also an invitation to rediscover your own tea break. [1]

When is International Tea Day?

On 19 December 2019, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 21 May International Tea Day. FAO supports its observance. [1]

15 December belongs to its earlier history: in 2005, trade unions and the Centre for Education and Communication organised a day for workers and small growers in New Delhi. This should be distinguished from the later UN date. [2]

Beyond enjoyment: the people behind tea

FAO highlights livelihoods, culture and sustainable production. Tea growing and processing support millions of families, with small producers playing an important role. [3]

Our suggestion: when buying tea, look beyond the flavour to its origin and verifiable product information. An observance is not a sustainability certification. Descriptions such as “organic” or “fair trade” should be supported for the particular product.

Green tea, black tea or herbal infusion?

Green and black tea come from Camellia sinensis, processed in different ways. Herbal and fruit infusions use, for example, flowers, leaves or fruits from other plants; everyday language often calls these “tea” too. [4][5]

This distinction helps you choose: read the ingredients and follow your taste rather than assuming all infusions have the same properties.

Three ideas for a mindful tea break

1. Choose with curiosity

What would you like to try today? Pick one familiar variety and one new flavour. Note what you enjoy about their aroma and taste. This is about discovery, not getting a right or wrong answer.

2. Pay attention to brewing

Tea quantity, water temperature and steeping time influence the result. Follow the packaging rather than preparing every variety identically. A timer helps you repeat the preparation you enjoy. [6]

3. Share the moment

Invite someone for a cup or take a break with a book. Tea and coffee need not be rivals: create a ritual that you enjoy.

Tea and sweet treats: two pairings to try

Our tasting suggestions: try a delicate green tea with lemon cake, or a bold black tea with a chocolate biscuit. Taste the drink and the treat separately first, then together. Discover whether you prefer similar flavours or contrasts.

These are suggestions, not rules. For your next coffee break, our coffee and dessert pairing guide offers more ideas.

Discover tea at La Bottega del Caffè

Explore our tea selection to compare the varieties and formats offered. For preparation in a suitable pod machine, there is also a dedicated category of tea pods in the 44 mm E.S.E. format.

Before buying: check the product description and your machine’s instructions. A matching diameter alone does not replace checking the intended use. Instructions for an infusion in a cup cannot simply be transferred to machine preparation.

Frequently asked questions about International Tea Day

When is the official UN observance?

Every year on 21 May, the date designated by the General Assembly in 2019. [1]

Why is 15 December also mentioned?

It refers to the earlier workers’ and small growers’ initiative observed in New Delhi in 2005. [2]

What is the purpose of the day?

It highlights tea’s economic and cultural significance, sustainable production and the people working in the sector. [3]

How long should tea steep?

It depends on the variety and product. Start with the packaging instructions for quantity, temperature and time. [6]

Are tea pods and tea bags interchangeable?

Use each product for the preparation specified on its packaging. For pods, also check that your machine is suitable.

Conclusion: enjoy your cup with attention

On 21 May or an ordinary afternoon, take time for your drink, its origin and the people sharing it. Find your next variety in our tea collection.

Sources and context

Dates and background information draw on the sources below. Tea-break and food-pairing ideas are editorial suggestions, not health promises.

  1. FAO: UN decision on International Tea Day, 19 December 2019
  2. Centre for Education and Communication: history of the day
  3. FAO: significance and aims of International Tea Day
  4. Tea and Herbal Association of Canada: Know Your Tea
  5. Tea and Herbal Association of Canada: herbal infusions
  6. Tea and Herbal Association of Canada: brewing

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