US Embassy in London enters storm in a teacup over salt
An American scientist has suggested that the perfect cup of tea includes a pinch of salt and squeeze of lemon
Last updated 24th Jan 2024
Hot water, sugar and milk are perhaps some of the ingredients most associated with a good cup of tea.
But an American scientist has stirred debate by suggesting that people should add a pinch of salt, and it's caused fierce debate online.
The controversial claim has ultimately led to the US Embassy in London releasing a statement.
The statement read "Today's media reports of an American Professor's recipe for the 'perfect cup of tea has landed our special bond with the United Kingdom in hot water.
"Tea is the elixir of camaraderie, a sacred bond that unites our nations. We cannot stand idly by as such an outrageous proposal threatens the very foundation of our Special Relationship.
"Therefore we want to ensure the good people of the UK that the unthinkable notion of adding salt to Britain's national drink is not official United States policy. And never will be
"Let us unite in our steeped solidarity and show the world that when it comes to tea, we stand as one.
"The US Embassy will continue to make tea in the proper way - by microwaving it."
The Cabinet Office has since responded - but not about the use of salt:
It says tea should only be made using a kettle - and not, as the Americans apparently often do, by using a microwave.
And what about any response from tea companies? Yorkshire Tea and Typhoo Tea aren't impressed:
The announcement from the Embassy comes after Michelle Francl claimed the key to the perfect cup of tea is adding a pinch of salt.
Michelle Francl, who works at a university in Pennsylvania, says it reduces the bitterness of your cuppa.
She also suggests using loose leaves rather than tea bags and using a short mug.
Ms Francl responded to the United States Embassy in London's tweet, saying that her book has "diplomatic implications".