Guwahati: The Tea Association Of India (TAI) refuted the allegation of adding artificial colours to tea products and maintained that tea producers associated with the TAI upheld the highest standards of authenticity, quality, and ethical practices. The statement came after the Federation of All India Tea Traders' Associations (FAITTA) alleged that artificial colours were being added to packaged tea products.
The TAI in a statement said, “Our members are committed to producing tea adhering to all regulatory requirements and industry norms. As part of the stringent evaluation process, tea samples from producers are thoroughly assessed by buyers before any purchasing decisions are made. Therefore, if any producers were engaged in the practice of mixing artificial colours, this would be promptly recognised during the evaluation process and appropriate measures would be taken by the buyers.”
President of TAI, Ajay Jalan, said, “We believe that FAITTA's statement may have been misconstrued. They were possibly suggesting that there are unscrupulous traders or retail sellers who might resort to such practices. They were possibly not suggesting that these unethical practices represent the broader tea-producing community.”
“We firmly believe that this issue, while important, should not overshadow the tireless efforts of ethical producers who are committed to delivering high-quality and authentic tea products,” Jalan added.
Earlier, the FAITTA, an apex body of the tea trade in India, had voiced concern over adding artificial colour to packaged tea products. The body stated that responsible sections of the trade and brands are being adversely affected by such a practice.
Assam contributes to over 50 per cent of the world’s total tea production and has over 800 small, medium and big tea gardens. The favourable climate condition in the state contributes to the temperature required by the tea bushes which helps in the production of quality tea.
The writer is a senior independent journalist covering the Northeast.