Assam farmers fear weakening tea output and flavor
Growers in India's Assam region, which accounts for more than half of the country's output, are concerned about the bland taste of their brew. The taste of Assam tea, which is known for its strength and body, and is often used in "breakfast" blends, has weakened over the years, mainly due to climate change. According to local researchers, temperatures in the region have increased by 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) in the last 80 years. Climate change has also had an impact on output, with dampness negatively affecting tea growth and encouraging bug attacks. The region produced 564'000 tons of tea in 2007. This figure fell to an estimated 460'000 tons in 2010.