US consumers continue to drink more coffee and tea
A recent US foodservice and retail market survey conducted by Technomic found that 60 percent of consumers reported drinking coffee or tea in the last month. Only non-diet carbonated beverages fared slightly better with 62%. 10 percent of respondents also said that they drink more iced tea now than two years ago. Green tea was cited as the most appealing variety for hot or iced tea by nearly three out of four consumers, due to its health credentials. Lemon and honey were the other two flavors that were highlighted by 60% of tea drinkers. According to Technomic, hot and iced tea products have increased in price, from an average of $2.40 in 2008 to $2.57 two years later. In recent years, the number of green tea products has grown significantly on restaurant chain menus across the country.