It was only recent when I started to develop an interest in tea. I used to always drink the Earl Grey variant and it is only now that I am exploring the different kinds of tea available now. The list is extensive! It is fun to sample the different kinds and learn more about the flavors. The basic tea types are black, white, green, oolong, and Pu’erh. I have been reading about it as well and it’s interesting to know about its origin. One particular kind that I love is the Chai tea. It is a creamy, spiced concoction made up of black tea and milk. Several spices are used but the most popular and widely used ones are cinnamon, ginger, pepper, cardamom, and cloves. Traditionally, Chai tea is an after-meal drink because it aids in digestion due to the medicinal properties of the spices. It is truly a soothing drink!
Chai tea has been around for centuries and its popularity reached the Western shores over the years. And since it is my favorite drink now, I made an effort to know more about it. I found out that you have the option to buy organic Chai tea instead of the regular ones. Much like how organic food stuff works, organic tea is definitely a healthier choice. In a world where almost everything is made by hugh technology and chemicals, it is nice to know that there are manufacturers that continue to offer us products that safe for consumption.
What’s even better is the fair trade Chai kind. Now, this is not a kind tea. It actually speaks of a Fair Trade Movement that pushes for fair pricing among producers of various goods around the world. Its focus is on the developing countries that export coffee, tea, cocoa, and sugar among others. It doesn’t only touch on fair pricing but also the sustainability of the producers and environmental conditions. When you purchase fair trade Chai, you are also guaranteed that the manufacturers of the product followed the rules in not using child labor, in upholding a safe working location, and conservation of the environment. It actually promotes ethical purchasing and I am proud to say that I support these products.
If you are on the lookout for some fair trade Chai, just check the product label if it is certified or not. It’s nice to know that you get to enjoy a good cup of Chai tea and at the same time, support a worthy cause.
-Mike (Chai enthusiast)