Iced Tea - Fruit Infusions

Ice tea (or iced tea) is a beloved drink that has been enjoyed by millions of people all over the world for many years. It is a tasty drink made by brewing tea leaves, fruit, botanicals or herbs (or a combination of these ingredients) in hot water and then allowing the tea to cool and be served over ice. Ice tea is a refreshing and healthy drink that is enjoyed by people of all ages and has become a staple in households across the world.

There are many different types of ice tea available, making it a versatile and customizable drink. Some of the most popular types of ice tea include black tea, green tea, herbal tea, and fruit-flavoured teas. The flavour of ice tea can also be enhanced by adding fresh fruit, such as lemon, lime, or mint. Additionally, for those looking to make their ice tea even more healthy, there are a few ingredients that can be added to the mix, such as ginger or mint.  Try our Mango Mint or Citrus Burst ice tea.

To clarify, ice tea is only a true tea if it only contains leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant.  For example, if you brew black tea and allow it to cool, this is classified as an ice tea.  When fruit, herbs or dry flowers are included in the mix, it is actually called an infusion or a tisane. However, over time it has become simpler to refer to all of these beverages as 'iced tea or ice tea'.  

Fruit tea blends have been a refreshing supplement to green and black teas for many years.  Fruit teas are a natural, unprocessed fruit drink which is refreshing and tasty.  In the old days the beneficial effect of 'red tea' was known.  Red tea was brewed from rosehip, hibiscus, apple pieces and other dried fruits that were usually served as a dietary supplement to the diet when ill or at the evening meal.  Nowadays, the fruit blends make up their own important segment of most tea businesses.  Fruit tea is caffeine free and so can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Benefits of Ice Tea

There are several benefits to drinking ice tea, making it a great option for people looking for a healthy and refreshing drink.

Source of hydration- Drinking enough fluids is especially important on hot summer days when staying hydrated is crucial. But let's face it, water can get a little boring.  Ice tea is available in a huge range of delicious flavours, making you more likely to increase your fluid intake and avoid dehydration.  In addition, ice teas containing citrus fruits contain electrolytes which further increase your body's ability to absorb fluids and keep you hydrated.

Source of antioxidants- Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. They can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease, and can also help to improve the overall health of the body. Drinking ice tea is a simple way to get more antioxidants into your diet and enjoy their health benefits.

Reducing sugar and calorie intake - Unlike many other sweetened drinks, ice tea can be made with no added sugar and still be delicious.  The fruitiness of a fruit infusion can also curb your sugar cravings, making you less likely to indulge in an unhealthy sugary snack.

Reduce your carbon footprint- Unlike many other drinks that come in single-use plastic bottles, ice tea can be made at home and stored in a reusable pitcher, reducing the amount of waste produced. Additionally, brewing your own ice tea at home allows you to control the ingredients and make sure that it is made to your taste preferences, making it a great option for people who are looking to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Immune fighting - Fruit teas are loaded with vitamins and minerals.  Fruit contains Vitamin C which is nature's way of fighting off that cold or flu.  Fruit infused water as ice tea can also provide other nutrients such as;

• Vitamin C
• B12
• B6
• Thiamine
• Riboflavin
• Niacin
• Pantothenic acid
• Biotin
• Folic acid
• Electrolytes

Clear skin - By drinking more liquid you skin will look and feel hydrated.  Vitamins in the fruit can help fight off acne and can act as a natural barrier for clearer, younger looking skin.

Improved heart health - Dried berries, orange and citrus fruits contain antioxidants which may lower cholesterol.  Lemon, strawberries and apple contain pectin which can also lower cholesterol. In addition, Pomegranate may reduce blood pressure (check out our pomegranate and white tea, which is tasty served warm or chilled).

Reduce Inflammation- Pineapple contains anti-inflammatory enzymes which is great for reducing swelling. Pineapple can be found in Pina Colada iced Tea.

How to Make Ice Tea

Making ice tea at home is easy and can be done with just a few simple ingredients. All you need is a good quality tea or fruit infusion, hot water, and a cup or jug to brew it in.

If brewing from a tea base, then steep the water for 3-5 minutes.  If brewing from a fruit base you should steep the water for 5-10 minutes or until it reaches your desired flavour.  Let the water cool and then add ice.  Additional fruit can be added to your liking.   You can even make it in large batches and store it in the refrigerator, making it a convenient and refreshing drink for any time of day.

In conclusion, ice tea is a beloved and refreshing drink that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for many years. It is a healthy and versatile drink that can be enjoyed in many different forms and flavours.

Want to try some for yourself?  We have 6 different ice tea flavours to choose from including: Mango Mint, Citrus Burst, Queen of Berries, Strawberries and Cream, Pina Colada and Pink Lemonade.