Flavor perception and health benefits of tea

Impact of processing methods in shaping taste, flavor, antioxidants, and metabolites in teas (Camellia sinensis): A multi-method analysis

This study systematically examined the effects of processing techniques on the flavor profiles and functional attributes of tea derived from fresh leaves (Camellia sinensis) of identical origin. Pu-erh raw tea (PRT), white tea (WT), and black tea (BT) were produced through distinct processing protocols (non-fermented, lightly fermented, and fully fermented, respectively). Antioxidant activity and sensory characteristics were evaluated alongside comprehensive metabolomic analyses using GC-IMS, GC-MS, and UHPLC-QTOF-MS. PRT exhibited superior antioxidant capacity with pronounced bitterness and astringency, whereas WT displayed fruity-sweet notes and BT demonstrated a mellow profile linked to fermentation. Metabolomic profiling identified six discriminative biomarkers and two pivotal compounds differentiating tea types, alongside six key metabolic pathways (e.g., secondary metabolite biosynthesis) driving compositional variations. These findings elucidate processing-induced biochemical transformations, offering insights for quality optimization and consumer-oriented tea selection.

Exploring tea and herbal infusions consumption patterns and behaviours: The case of Portuguese consumers

Consumption of tea and herbal infusions (THIs) have a long history in traditional medicine and cultural practices. The health-promoting benefits attributed to THIs are considered influential factors in consumer choices. However, there is limited data on consumer choices and attitudes that might interfere with the positive effects associated with THIs consumption. The aim of this study was to investigate the consumption pattern and behavior of THIs consumers in Portugal, assessing the influence of socio-demographic factors on the selection of THIs products and consumer practices related to these beverages. An online survey was conducted, and from the collected data, 720 responses met the aim of the study and were further analyzed. Most of the respondents were female, 74.4%, belonging to the 40-60 age group (40.6%) and were medium consumers of THIs (47.2%). Green tea was the most consumed type among participants, and its consumption was associated not only with age but also with the pattern of THIs consumption. Despite that, participants preferred herbal infusions, with citronella, chamomile, and lemon verbena being the most consumed types. For certain types of herbal infusions, consumption was associated with age, while other types were preferred by moderate or heavy consumers. Most participants purchased THIs in supermarkets, registered trademark and brand stores, in the form of THIs bag. Light consumers use only bag, while medium/heavy consumers indicated the use of other forms. Almost half of the respondents admitted to not reading the information on product labels before consumption and using THIs after the expiry date, while only one-third of them declared paying attention to the label instructions. This study revealed the impact of socio-demographic factors as age on the consumption patterns and preferences of THIs of consumers. Of concern is the neglect of label usage among Portuguese consumers. This emphasizes the urgency of implementing interventions to guide proper label use and promote good consumption practices to ensure the quality of THIs products.