Celebrating Heritage Day with the launch of our new Organic Rooibos offering

Heritage Day, celebrated annually on September 24th in South Africa, is a special day dedicated to honoring the rich cultural heritage of the nation. It’s a time to reflect on the diverse traditions, languages, and customs that have shaped South Africa’s unique identity. From the vibrant Zulu culture to the peaceful Xhosa traditions and the European influences, Heritage Day provides a platform to showcase and appreciate the country’s tapestry of heritage.

Rooibos tea is a beloved staple in South African households, enjoyed by people of all ages. Its mild, slightly sweet flavour and potential health benefits make it a popular choice for both hot and cold beverages. Rooibos is often enjoyed with milk and sugar, but it can also be enjoyed plain or with honey or lemon. This versatile tea has become an integral part of South African culture, enjoyed daily in homes across the country.

Rooibos, a unique herbal tea native to South Africa, has gained worldwide acclaim for its health benefits and distinctive flavour. To protect its authenticity and quality, rooibos has been granted both Geographical Indication (GI) and Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status. These designations ensure that rooibos produced outside of its specific growing region in South Africa cannot be labeled as such, safeguarding the reputation of this iconic South African product and promoting sustainable economic growth.

With the demand for organic, plastic-free offerings growing every day, we have expanded our sustainable product line with the launch of Organic Rooibos teabags. These premium teabags are packaged in a box made from recyclable materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. The organic rooibos leaves are carefully sourced from sustainable farms, delivering a pure and flavorful tea experience while contributing to a healthier planet. The teabags used are completely plastic-free and compostable.

What does the “USDA organic” seal on the box mean?

Organic certification requires farmers and handlers to document their processes and be inspected annually. Organic on-site inspections account for every component of the operation, including, but not limited to, seed sources, soil conditions, crop health, weed and pest management, water systems, inputs, contamination and commingling risks and prevention, and record-keeping. Tracing organic products from start to finish is part of the USDA organic promise.

Produce can be called organic if it’s certified to have grown on soil that had no prohibited substances applied for three years before harvest. Prohibited substances include most synthetic fertilisers and pesticides. When a grower has to use an artificial substance to achieve a specific purpose, the substance must first be approved according to criteria that examine its effects on human health and the environment.

If you are interested in bulk rooibos, or to stock our range of rooibos teas, contact us at tea@carmientea.co.za (South Africa) or charlrudman@carmientea.co.za (exports).