Rooibos popularity booming in South Africa and abroad
South Africa's iconic rooibos tea is gaining popularity at home and abroad, as the caffeine-free beverage continues to attract health conscious drinkers. Data from the Rooibos Council suggests that half of the country's output, or about 6,000 tons, is exported to mainly to western countries, while the rest is increasingly popular with locals as they gravitate away from black tea. Top export markets remain Germany at 30%, followed by the Netherlands and Japan at around 15% each. A recent trade deal with the EU is likely to boost exports even further and offer trademark protection for the caffeine-free herb. Rooibos benefits from high antioxidant content, especially aspalathin and nothofagin, which is thought to protect from many ailments, including heart disease and certain forms of cancer. The 350 to 550 rooibos farms in South Africa employ 5,000 people and generate around $35 million is annual sales.