Is Tea Vegan?

There are products we might not even think twice about when considering whether they are vegan-and tea is one of them. For vegans, it is worth checking the list of ingredients in tea blends, as additional ingredients can sometimes be of animal origin. If you have ever wondered whether tea is vegan, you are in the right place! We will explore this question and explain what to look for to identify vegan tea.

Taking a Closer Look: What is Hidden in Tea?

Not all tea is created equal. Herbal or fruit blends are technically more like infusions, while the term "tea" among experts is often reserved for the "real tea" from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Usually, we do not distinguish so strictly in everyday language, but in some matters, it pays to be precise-like in this one. When you look at the production process and ingredient lists, you will quickly see how the vegan aspect can weigh differently for pure teas compared to multi-ingredient blends.

Is the Production Process Vegan?

Typically, pure tea is made solely from tea leaves, much like pure herbal infusions are composed of dried herbs, making the entire process-from harvesting to packaging-usually vegan. Yet, there is a fascinating exception to this. In Taiwan, a tiny insect plays a crucial role in producing a special type of tea. The Oolong known as Oriental Beauty, or Dongfang Meiren, is renowned for its unique flavor. This distinctive taste comes from tiny leafhoppers that feed on the tea leaves. As they extract the sugary sap with their proboscis, they inject a bit of saliva, triggering the plant's defensive enzymes, which ultimately create a remarkable aroma. However, this means that this particular tea is not strictly vegan.

Interestingly, this unique process was discovered by happenstance. These leafhoppers had been feasting on the leaves unnoticed, inadvertently adding an exceptional flavor to the tea. Once tea growers realized this, they began intentionally incorporating these industrious insects into the cultivation of this remarkable Oolong.

Watch Out: Ingredients That Can Threaten Vegan Status

For pure "real teas," be it white, green, oolong, black, or Pu-erh, you can generally be certain that they are vegan products. With blends, a closer look is recommended, as animal-derived flavorings can sometimes be used. In blends labeled with "cream," "honey," or "caramel," it is wise to check carefully. A glance at the ingredients list will reveal if animal-derived ingredients like honey or milk powder are used. As these are potential allergens, manufacturers are required to clearly list them on the packaging. Gelatin, an animal-derived binder, is occasionally used to help additional flavorings adhere better.

The Rumor Mill: What is True About the Myths?

The notion that tea must always be vegan since it is just leaves or fruits, is not entirely accurate. Some teas contain animal ingredients or rely on animal assistance, as the Taiwanese example vividly illustrates.

Moreover, cultural practices and preparation methods influence a tea's vegan status. Not every type is consumed plain. In some cultures, it is customary to mix tea. For instance, Indian chai is often enjoyed with milk. In the UK, people frequently add a dash of milk to their afternoon tea. In East Frisia, enjoying black tea with cream is traditional. And in Tibet, butter tea, made with yak milk and yak butter, is very popular.

However, as a vegan, you do not have to miss out on these delightful creations (except perhaps Tibetan butter tea). There are wonderful plant-based milk alternatives that can add a creamy touch to your black tea. Whether it's oat, soy, or almond, there are almost endless possibilities today, ensuring there is something for every taste.

How to Identify Vegan Tea

There are various labels and certifications indicating if a product is vegan, such as the prominent V-label with a green V on a yellow background. If your tea does not have a label, you can check the ingredient list yourself. However, caution is advised, as a few lower-quality blends might include E-numbers that can hide animal ingredients, though this is rare for tea.

Enjoying Tea with Style and Responsibility

At PAPER & TEA, we offer a wide selection of vegan teas. Only when you look at the ingredients of blends like Hunky Dory Breakfast and Sprite's Delight, you will notice the natural honey flavor, which is why these teas are not considered vegan. We invite you to explore the wonderfully diverse world of tea. As a vegan, you can enjoy most of our selection worry-free and savor unforgettable tea moments!

For the Animals: Principles of a Vegan Lifestyle

More and more people are choosing a plant-based diet. Those who are vegan intentionally avoid all products made from or containing animal parts. Most people make this choice not because they dislike ham and cheese croissants, but out of conviction. A vegan diet saves animal lives and conserves the environment.

It is not just about what you eat and drink that defines a vegan lifestyle-there is much more to it. Fashionable leather boots are off-limits, as are certain furniture items since many adhesives are based on animal proteins. Vegans also avoid cosmetics or hygiene products tested on animals. It is surprising to see how many products are unexpectedly non-vegan.

Did you know not all tea is vegan? Now you have the necessary knowledge to ensure your enjoyment of vegan tea is unhindered!