A preliminary in vivo study using Wistar rats was successfully conducted through a research collaboration involving the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo; the Illinois Institute of Technology, USA; and Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC as the industry partner.
The study investigated the effects of Ceylon black tea consumed with and without added sugar on glycaemic control, insulin response, insulin sensitivity, and insulin resistance.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of its kind to examine the effects of Ceylon black tea, particularly when consumed with added sugar, on overall glycaemic regulation while reflecting routine tea-consumption practices.
The findings of this preliminary study provide a scientific foundation for conducting a larger randomized controlled human trial to evaluate and establish the proposed health benefits of Ceylon black tea.

The long-term objective of this research collaboration is to generate robust scientific evidence to support an internationally recognized health claim for Ceylon black tea. Such recognition would represent a significant advancement for the Sri Lankan tea industry, provide benefits to relevant stakeholders, strengthen the global positioning of Ceylon tea, and contribute positively to the national economy.

Research Leads
• Prof. Prasanna Galhena
• Prof. Indika Edirisinghe
• Dr. Visula Abeysuriya
• Dr. Anudini Liyanage

Collaborating Institutions
• Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka
• Illinois Institute of Technology, USA
• Dilmah Ceylon Tea Company PLC, Sri Lanka