On average, each Turkish person consumes 6.9 pounds of tea annually, making them the world's most tea-loving nation.

The national tea of Türkiye is black tea, and its popularity is evident in the abundance of tea shops and outdoor teahouses scattered throughout streets, alleys, and even in remote corners.

Presently, tea stands as one of Türkiye's vital economic crops, boasting an annual output of approximately 240,000 tons.

The country ranks among the top 10 tea-producing nations globally, primarily cultivating tea in the eastern Black Sea region. The roots of Turkish tea cultivation trace back to 1924.

To incentivize farmers in the eastern Black Sea, Türkiye exempted them from taxes, leading to widespread tea cultivation within just fifty years. The surge in black tea consumption not only stimulated the regional economy and job creation but also contributed to the enrichment of Turkish culture.

In Türkiye, black tea has become a daily necessity and an essential tool for social interaction, often accompanying complimentary drinks in restaurants, such as welcome or reception tea.

Traditional Turkish tea, known as "cay", is a type of black tea served in small tulip-shaped glasses.

Unlike the British, Turks eschew the addition of milk or lemon, preferring to stir in sugar cubes before sipping. A bonus fact reveals that some locals place sugar cubes under their tongues, allowing them to dissolve gradually as they enjoy their tea.

The northeastern coastal region provides the ideal weather, climate, temperature, and soil conditions for cultivating high-quality tea, supplying the popular Turkish tea across the nation.

After harvesting, tea leaves undergo drying, pressing, and packaging in factories before reaching teahouses, gardens, shops, and homes throughout Türkiye.

Cavkur produces over 6,500 tons of tea daily, making it Türkiye's most popular tea and home to numerous brands. When exploring stores, it's common for shopkeepers to extend hospitality by offering tea to customers, encouraging them to browse without feeling obligated to make a purchase.

Public spaces dedicated to tea, such as "Cay Eviler" (teahouses) and "Cay Bahcesi" (tea gardens), are prevalent in Türkiye. These places serve as social hubs where families and friends gather, fostering quality time together over cups of tea. Apart from its cultural significance, Turkish tea also offers notable health benefits. Studies indicate that black tea consumption can reduce the risk of heart attacks or strokes by regulating heart and blood vessels.

The flavonoids in black tea contribute to lowering cholesterol levels, improving metabolism, and reducing the risk of diabetes.

Moreover, the simple act of enjoying tea with loved ones has been linked to improved mental health.