Trends in tea from the land of the rising sun - Part 1: Coca leaves and tea leaves
A Buddhist Monk introduced tea to Japan in the 6th Century. By the year 1200 Japanese Zen priest Eisai, wrote the first book on tea (“Kissa Yojoki” or translated: “Book of Tea“).He described the tea plant and stressed the important health benefits of green tea for vital organs such as the heart and the brain.
The Japanese love green tea as much as they love taking western ideas and giving them a uniquely Japanese twist. So it shouldn't be surprising that the Coca-Cola Company, who are already a major bottler of green tea in Japan, went a step further with the introduction of green tea flavored cola.
“Its healthy antioxidants, called catechins, and slight green tea aftertaste are targeted at health-conscious young women in their twenties and thirties”. “We wanted to cater to people who are looking for something that tastes good but is also good for health and beauty,” said Coca Cola (Japan) Co. spokesman Katsuya Sato. Pepsi, responded with its own green tea flavoured carbonated drink Pepsi Shiso.
Whilst green tea’s popularity in Ireland has been phenomenal in recent years, we think we may have to wait just another few years before seeing matcha falvoured Coke or Pepsi in our local shops shelves. Until that time, it may be wise to stick to Solaris.
