News Release
5 November 2012
Bell Zesty Green Tea Supercharged with Antioxidants
Green Tea has been popular in China for thousands of years for its renowned health benefits and Kiwis are catching on
too with green tea being the fastest growing segment in the tea category in New Zealand. Research shows this is largely
due to the extensive health benefits of antioxidants in tea, and the Bell Zesty Green range delivers high levels of
antioxidants with a flavour profile designed especially for the Kiwi palate.
Matt Greenwood, New Zealand’s only Master Tea Taster and his team of Brew Masters have developed a range of Bell Zesty
Green Teas which have high antioxidants and four great flavours. Renowned for his extensive knowledge of all things tea
– Matt Greenwood explains why green tea is so good for us.
“Tea has high levels of antioxidants called flavonoids and although black, green and white teas all come from the same
plant, Camellia Sinensis, they all contain different types and amounts of flavonoids,” he said.
“How the tea is grown, manufactured and prepared also determines the characteristics of the flavonoids present. Green
teas contain more of the simple flavanoids called catechins, while black tea has more complex flavanoids called
theaflavins and thearubigins.” said Greenwood.
The health effects of flavonoids has been intensively investigated over many years, and it has been found that
flavonoids, particularly catechins found in green tea, may help reduce the risk of major health problems.
“We know that antioxidants are beneficial in many ways - but the actual method of maximising the amount released into
your tea depends largely on the length of time your tea is brewed. The best way to ensure this is to brew tea for a
minimum of three minutes. It’s the easiest and tastiest way to release those healthy antioxidants.” he continued
1. In the first minute you will notice the colour intensify as the freshly boiled water starts to reveal the colour.
2. Within the second minute, the colour of your tea deepens and the flavour increases.
3. By the third minute and beyond, your tea will release the most antioxidants which will help fight free radicals.
“When you’re looking for a quality green tea – you should be looking for a tea with high levels of antioxidants that are
soft, pure and sweet. Visually it should be light in colour, but the taste should be full-bodied and refreshing.” said
Matt.
Bell has just added a revitalising Lemon and Ginger blend to its great range of delectable flavours which is sure to
invigorate and awaken your senses and enhanced the ever popular Berry blend. The Bell Zesty Green Tea range comprises
Pure, Citrus, Berry and Lemon and Ginger, now available in new 24’s, and Pure and Citrus are available in 50’s.
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