How Healthy is Inca Tea?

And dozens of other FAQs about our tea blends.

ABOUT PURPLE CORN

What is purple corn?

High anthocyanin content gives purple corn (Zea mays L.) its deep, rich purple color and helps make it one of the healthiest superfoods available. Historians believe that generations have cultivated purple corn high in the Andes Mountain region of Peru for thousands of years. Like more common yellow and white varieties, people enjoy the soft, slightly-sweet taste of purple corn off the cob once boiled or steamed. It is also the key ingredient in a traditional Peruvian beverage called chicha morada – the inspiration for Inca Tea.

What is an Anthocyanin?

Anthocyanins are naturally occurring chemical compounds that have demonstrated health benefits like antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory capabilities and even anticancer qualities.

Where can I learn more about the health benefits of purple corn?

Monica Giusti, Ph.D. of The Ohio State University is a leading expert on the study of purple corn. Inca Tea is proud to have Dr. Giusti on our advisory board. This study is among many she has published regarding the health benefits of purple corn.

What is Purple Corn Tea?

Purple corn tea is an herbal tea made by infusing purple corn in hot water. Each Inca Tea blend is made using non-GMO purple corn and other natural ingredients.

Where does the Purple Corn in Inca Tea come from?

Inca Tea uses 100% Peruvian purple corn.

DIETARY QUESTIONS

How much caffeine is in Inca Tea blends?

We get this question all the time. The honest answer is: we don’t know for sure. It’s why we only label our teas as either lightly caffeinated or caffeine free. Tea leaves contain different levels of caffeine based on factors like growing conditions and processing methods. Even your steeping technique will have an effect on the amount of caffeine in your cup. A 6- to 8-ounce cup of tea generally contains between 15 and 70 milligrams of caffeine.

How many calories are in Inca Tea blends?

The calories in Inca Tea blends come from natural ingredients like purple corn, apples and oranges. Calories vary, but tend to be around 30 calories per cup.

Are Inca Tea blends Non-GMO Project Verified?

Yes. We are proud to say that Inca Tea is one of only 27 tea companies verified by the Non-GMO Project.

Are Inca Tea blends certified organic?

Inca Tea currently makes all of our teas with organic ingredients. We’re working to get organic certification.

Are Inca Tea blends gluten free?

Yes. The ingredients used in Inca Tea blends do not contain gluten. The machines we use to process our teas do not come in contact with gluten, either.

HOW IT’S MADE

Where does Inca Tea manufacture all of its products?

Inca Tea is proudly made in the USA using global ingredients. We process and package our teas at our headquarters in Cleveland, Ohio. Plus, we use local vendors to manufacture our boxes and produce our biodegradable tea bags.

What are Inca Tea bags made from?

Our individual serving teabags and made with a byproduct of certified non-GMO corn. They are are 100% biodegradable and compostable.

What about Inca Tea boxes? Are they earth-friendly?

Inca Tea boxes are made from 100% recycled materials and printed with soy-based inks.

STEEPING AND STORING TEA

What’s the best way to steep tea?

You’ll find slightly different recommendations for every individual blend of Inca Tea. You can find those instructions on every product page of this site and every package. Depending on the blend, you’ll bring 8 to 10 ounces of water up to 180°-212° F and steep your tea for several minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor.

Can I make iced tea?

Yes. In fact, our founder most often enjoys his tea cold. Simply put 4 to 6 bags of Inca Tea into a pitcher with 8 cups of cold water. Refrigerate for 14 to 24 hours or until your brew achieves your desired strength. Remove the tea bags, stir, pour over ice and enjoy.

How should I store my tea?

Teas should be stored away from oxygen, light, heat and moisture. Place unused loose leaf tea in an airtight container sized so that the remaining tea fills as much of the container as possible. Do not store teas in a refrigerator as there is potential for condensation to form in the container when you take it out into a warm room.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

How did Inca Tea begin?

The concept of Inca Tea came to Ryan Florio while hiking the Inca Trail with his two best friends, Zach and Phil. On this trip, Ryan first encountered a traditional Peruvian beverage made with purple corn. (Read more about that adventure here.) The experience was so memorable and magical, Ryan returned to the United States with a dream to start a purple corn tea company. He crafted the first Inca Tea blends in his parent’s kitchen outside of Cleveland, Ohio.

When was Inca Tea started?

Inca Tea started in 2014.

Can I follow Inca Tea on social media?

We’d love to have you join our communi-tea. Find Inca Tea on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Does Inca ever donate tea?

Since day one, Inca Tea has given back to the community in a variety of ways. Please email us with any donation and sponsorship requests.