Tag: Tea etiquette

While there is no one universal standard, a typical builders brew is sweetened with one to two teaspoons of sugar. This strong cup of black tea, a staple of British working-class culture, is defined more by its robust flavor and preparation method than a rigid recipe.

According to Chinese tradition dating back centuries, drinking tea before a meal is a deep-seated practice rooted in both hospitality and wellness. This ritual is far more than just a beverage preference; it’s a way of preparing the body and mind for the food to come, cleansing the palate, and aiding digestion before a potentially heavy or greasy meal.

Studies have shown that adding an acid, like lemon juice, to milk will cause the proteins within it to coagulate and form clumps. This is the very reason behind the unpleasant result when mixing these ingredients, answering the question: why is milk not served with lemon tea?

Over 8.2 million people in the UK alone drink tea 2-3 times a day, and many of them unknowingly sabotage their brew with one simple act. Many tea drinkers find themselves asking, "Should I squeeze a green tea bag?" The short answer is no, and understanding why can transform your entire tea experience.

According to a 2025 news release from the Royal Society of Chemistry, adding milk first to a cup of tea is scientifically the superior method for achieving a better flavor profile. The answer to the age-old debate of why should milk go first lies in a blend of history, physics, and chemistry that ensures a smoother, more balanced brew.

According to research, the first credible record of tea consumption dates back to the 3rd century AD, with tea drinking now a deeply ingrained cultural practice worldwide. But beyond the simple act of steeping leaves, knowing how to drink tea properly is key to unlocking its full potential, from subtle flavors to maximum health benefits.

With an estimated 6.9 billion kilograms of tea consumed globally in 2022, it is a beloved ritual worldwide. But as you raise your cup, have you ever wondered: are you supposed to sip or chug tea?