Theaflavins in tea

Introduction

Tea has been enjoyed as a beverage for centuries, admired not only for its enticing flavours but also for its potential health benefits. Within the diverse array of compounds found in tea, one group that has garnered considerable attention is the theaflavins. These natural plant compounds have been linked to various health-promoting properties, making them a subject of interest for food testing laboratories worldwide. In this blog post, we will delve into the fascinating world of theaflavins and explore the role of food testing laboratories in unravelling their potential.


                                                                 https://www.eurofins.in/food-testing/industries/tea-testing/

What are Theaflavins?

Theaflavins belong to a class of polyphenolic compounds known as flavonoids, which are abundant in tea leaves. They are primarily found in black tea, the result of a complex fermentation process that transforms the tea leaves' chemical composition. Theaflavins are responsible for the rich, amber color and distinctive flavour profile of black tea. Research suggests that theaflavins possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which could have profound implications for human health.

There are several types of theaflavins that have been identified in tea, including:

• Theaflavin (TF): This is the most common and abundant theaflavin in black tea. It is formed from the oxidation of epicatechins.

• Theaflavin-3-gallate (TF-3-G): It is derived from the oxidation of epicatechin gallate.

• Theaflavin-3'-gallate (TF-3'-G): This theaflavin is formed from the oxidation of epigallocatechin gallate.

• Theaflavin-3,3'-digallate (TF-3,3'-DG): It is produced from the oxidation of gallocatechins.
  
  

Health benefits of Theaflavins

The Significance of testing Theaflavins in tea

Market overview

The market size of flavonoids reached USD 701.63 million in 2022 and is projected to witness a significant expansion with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.15% during the forecast period. By 2028, the market is anticipated to reach a value of USD 1253.27 million.

 
Regulations and standards

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has implemented various regulations and standards to ensure the sale and production of safe and high-quality tea. Prohibition of Coloring Substances: The use of any coloring substances in tea is prohibited by FSSAI.

Use of Pectinase Enzyme: FSSAI permits the use of up to 0.2% pectinase enzyme for enhancing flavor characteristics in tea.

Labeling Requirements: The labeling information for tea must comply with FSSAI's Labelling Regulations, Advertisement and Claims Regulations, and Packaging Regulations.

Natural Flavors: The use of "natural flavors" and "natural flavoring substances" is allowed in tea, subject to applicable regulations.

Flavored Tea Standards: Flavored tea manufacturers must ensure that the tea used meets the standards set for tea. They are also required to register with the Tea Board and display the Tea Board registration number on the label.

FSSAI License Requirement: Like all other food business operators, tea businesses need to obtain an FSSAI license for their activities, including manufacturing, marketing, retail, and export.

Quality and Safety Assurance: Tea manufacturers must ensure that their products are free from contaminants, extraneous matter, and any infestation from pests, as tea is a product of plant origin.

Testing methods

Eurofins role in testing Theaflavins in tea

Eurofins is a renowned global company that offers comprehensive testing services, including testing for various parameters in tea. Eurofins' role in testing tea encompasses a wide range of analyses to ensure the safety, quality, and compliance of tea products. Here are some key aspects of Eurofins' role in tea testing

Eurofins employs advanced analytical techniques, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and mass spectrometry (MS), to identify and quantify theaflavins in tea samples. These methods enable accurate measurement of the levels of theaflavins present in the tea.

Pesticide and Chemical Residue Testing: Eurofins conducts tests to detect and quantify the presence of pesticides, herbicides, and other chemical residues in tea. This helps ensure that tea products comply with regulatory limits and are safe for consumption.

Heavy Metal Testing: Eurofins performs testing for heavy metals, such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury, which can be naturally occurring or result from environmental contamination. This ensures that tea products meet safety standards and do not pose health risks to consumers.

Microbiological Testing: Eurofins examines tea samples for the presence of harmful microorganisms like bacteria, molds, and yeasts. This testing helps ensure that teas are free from pathogens and meet microbiological safety requirements.

Authenticity and Adulteration Testing: Eurofins utilizes various methods, including DNA-based testing, to verify the authenticity of tea products and detect any adulteration or substitution. This helps ensure that consumers are receiving genuine and unadulterated tea.

Quality and Composition Analysis: Eurofins conducts comprehensive analysis of tea samples to determine their quality parameters, including sensory attributes, moisture content, caffeine levels, and other compositional characteristics. This information helps tea producers and importers assess and maintain the quality of their products.

Regulatory Compliance: Eurofins' testing services for tea align with national and international regulatory requirements, helping tea businesses meet the necessary standards and guidelines set by regulatory authorities.

Eurofins' expertise, advanced testing methodologies, and global network of laboratories make them a trusted partner for tea businesses in ensuring the safety, quality, and compliance of their products. It's important to note that the specific testing services and capabilities offered by Eurofins may vary across regions and laboratories, so it is advisable to consult Eurofins directly or visit their official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Eurofins Analytical Services India, located in Bangalore, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving recognition from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) under the Laboratory Accreditation for Analyses of Foods (LAAF) program. This makes Eurofins the first laboratory in Asia to receive such recognition.

References

1. Fuchs, D., & Draijer, R. (2014). Effect of Tea Theaflavins and Catechins on Microvascular Function. Nutrients, 6(12), 5772-5785. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu6125772
2. Takemoto, M., & Takemoto, H. (2018). Synthesis of Theaflavins and Their Functions. Molecules : A Journal of Synthetic Chemistry and Natural Product Chemistry, 23(4). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules23040918

Contact Us