The Evolution of Adding Milk to Tea and Coffee

Drinking milk is actually older than both drinking coffee and tea. The Viking Age date back to around 793 AD, and from then it was common to drink milk. It's not mentioned in the Bible, which has no record of a cup of tea either. Thus, the practice of adding milk to tea and coffee is a relatively modern tradition.

Historical Background

Historically, people used milk long before they discovered the delights of tea and coffee. In fact, milk is mentioned in the Bible, whereas there is no record of tea in that ancient text. This suggests that the practice of adding milk to tea or coffee likely originated as a way to make the beverage more palatable, especially for those who are more sensitive to the bitterness, astringency, or heat of the drink.

Reasons for Adding Milk

There are several reasons why people add milk to their tea or coffee:

To Mellow Out the Bitterness or Astringency: The fat and protein in milk can help to smooth out the texture of the beverage, making the taste more palatable. This is especially useful for those who find tea or coffee too strong or bitter. Cultural and Personal Preferences: The tradition of adding milk to tea or coffee is cultural. In the UK and India, it is common to add milk to tea, whereas in Europe and the United States, it is often added to coffee for flavor and richness. Health Considerations: In the past, adding milk to tea or coffee was also a way to protect the stomach from the harsh effects of the beverage.

Modern Perspectives

Today, the practice of adding milk to tea or coffee is a matter of personal taste and cultural tradition. However, not everyone enjoys the flavor of milk in their tea or coffee. According to various studies, about half of tea and coffee drinkers either add milk or cream or drink them black, without modification.

Some people believe that adding milk makes their tea or coffee more flavorful and enjoyable, whereas others find it unnecessary or even disagreeable. For instance, when the author was young, his mother used to add milk or creamer to tea and coffee to protect his young stomach. However, a few misadventures with too much milk or sour milk led to a lifelong preference for drinking black tea and coffee.

Ultimately, whether one adds milk to their tea or coffee is a personal choice. The most important thing is to enjoy it in a way that brings them pleasure and satisfaction. Whether you prefer your tea and coffee black or with milk, it is all about personal preference and tradition.