Milk tea is a blended beverage of milk and black tea, combining the nutritional benefits of both ingredients.

Varieties include iced milk tea, hot milk tea, sweet milk tea, salty milk tea, and more. It's popular in regions like India, Arabia, the UK, Malaysia, and Singapore.

However, milk tea faces four major issues: high sugar, high fat, high caffeine, and trans fat content. Its ingredients typically consist of tea and either cow's milk or goat's milk.

Typically, the process involves boiling crushed tea bricks in a copper pot, adding fresh milk when the tea boils, stirring continuously until the flavors blend, removing the tea leaves, and adding salt. However, some versions omit the salt, leaving it to individual preference.

In Malaysia and Singapore, there's a technique called "pulling tea," a skilled process involving pouring prepared milk tea from one container to another at a height, believed to enhance richness and smoothness. Yet, some argue these steps might compromise hygiene and affect the quality of the milk tea.

Despite milk being a common ingredient, some milk teas use non-dairy creamer, comprising hydrogenated vegetable oil, glucose syrup, sodium caseinate, and sodium aluminosilicate. Hydrogenated oils can contain trans fats, which are linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease.

Studies suggest limiting daily trans fat intake to 2 grams. Milk tea made with non-dairy creamer contains 0.5-2.7 grams of trans fats per 300 milliliters, potentially elevating the risk of cardiovascular issues with long-term consumption.

Additionally, the sugar content in a cup of milk tea shouldn't be underestimated. Excessive fat intake from beverages like milk tea, especially those with toppings like cream, can lead to obesity. Toppings significantly elevate fat content, averaging 7 grams per 100 milliliters. This intake could equate to the fat content of two meals, surpassing the recommended daily fat intake of 60 grams for adults. Therefore, moderation is advised when consuming milk tea, despite its popularity.

Previously, enthusiasts of coffee and milk tea were distinct groups, but new beverage trends are bridging this gap. Many brands, whether major chains or local ones, are venturing into coffee. For tea chains, selling coffee is a new revenue stream, relatively easier to develop compared to innovating tea-based drinks.

Made from roasted and ground coffee beans, coffee stands among the world's top three beverages alongside cocoa and tea. Its popularity is growing globally, entwined with various aspects of modern life, from fashion to work and leisure.

The coffee tree originates from the highlands of southwestern Ethiopia in Africa. Legend has it that over a millennium ago, a shepherd noticed his goats becoming lively after eating a certain plant, leading to the discovery of coffee. Another tale involves a wildfire accidentally burning a coffee forest, wafting the aroma of roasting coffee, and catching the attention of nearby inhabitants.

Whether it's milk tea or coffee, both hold rich cultural significance and unique allure. They serve as not just a daily indulgence but also a shared conversation starter among people. However, while relishing these flavors, it's crucial to pay attention to the nutritional content and health risks these beverages carry. Moderately enjoying these delights and focusing on a balanced diet might just be the wisest choice while savoring these delightful drinks.