FSSAI warning on misuse of tea label
Camellia Sinensis and Tea Labeling Rules: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a clear warning to food business operators against labeling herbal infusions as “tea.” According to Indian food standards, the term tea can be used only for products derived from Camellia sinensis.
Herbal drinks made from tulsi, lemongrass, chamomile, hibiscus, or other plants must not be marketed as tea. Such mislabeling is treated as misleading and violates the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Static GK Tip: In India, FSSAI functions under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and regulates food labeling and standards nationwide.
Botanical identity of tea
Tea is obtained exclusively from the plant Camellia sinensis, an evergreen perennial shrub. All major tea varieties—black, green, white, oolong—come from the same species, differing only in processing methods.
The plant belongs to the Theaceae family and is native to East and Southeast Asia. India is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers of tea.
Static GK fact: The scientific naming system using genus and species was introduced by Carolus Linnaeus.
Common names and varieties
Camellia sinensis is commonly known as Assam Tea, Tea Camellia, or Tea Plant. The Assam variety has larger leaves and higher caffeine content compared to the China variety.
India’s globally recognised teas include Assam Tea and Darjeeling Tea, both protected under Geographical Indication (GI) tags. These teas derive their uniqueness from climate, soil, and processing traditions.
Agro-climatic requirements for tea cultivation
Tea grows best in tropical and sub-tropical climates with high humidity. The plant requires deep, fertile, and well-drained soils rich in humus and organic matter.
Tea bushes need a warm and moist, frost-free climate for most of the year. Prolonged frost can severely damage tea leaves and reduce yield.
Rainfall and temperature needs
Ideal annual rainfall ranges between 2000–4000 mm, well distributed across the year. Temperatures between 13°C and 32°C support optimal growth and leaf quality.
Excessive heat or water stagnation can stress plants and affect flavour compounds. Shade trees are often used in plantations to regulate microclimate.
Static GK fact: Plantation crops like tea, coffee, and rubber require long-term investment and are grown on large estates.
Soil and topography suitability
Tea thrives in slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. Such soil conditions help in nutrient absorption and root development. Undulating topography improves drainage and prevents waterlogging.
This is why hill slopes and gentle elevations are preferred for tea gardens.
Major tea-producing regions in India
Assam is the largest tea-producing state, known for strong and malty teas. The Brahmaputra Valley provides ideal rainfall, humidity, and alluvial soils. West Bengal, especially the Darjeeling hills, produces premium-quality tea with a distinctive aroma. These regions play a vital role in India’s agricultural exports.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Camellia Sinensis and Tea Labeling Rules:
| Topic | Detail |
| Scientific source of tea | Camellia sinensis |
| Regulatory authority | Food Safety and Standards Authority of India |
| Labeling restriction | Herbal infusions cannot be called tea |
| Ideal rainfall | 2000–4000 mm annually |
| Suitable temperature | 13°C to 32°C |
| Soil pH requirement | 4.5 to 5.5 |
| Major tea states | Assam and West Bengal |
| GI-tagged Indian teas | Assam Tea, Darjeeling Tea |
