Economic and Quality Determinants of Yerba Mate, Tea and Coffee Consumption

Abstract

Yerba Mate, coffee and tea consumption varies depending on the country, region and cultural background. The highest quantity of tea is consumed in Turkey, coffee in Finland and Yerba Mate in Argentina. The purpose of this paper is to present the economic and qualitative factors that determine the consumption of Yerba Mate, coffee and tea. The determinants and factors influencing the volume of production and consumption were analysed. A comparison of selected qualitative parameters, such as polyphenols, antioxidising effects and caffeine, was drawn. The discussed parameters determine, to a great extent, the demand for these products. The analysis made it possible to conclude that the analysed products can function as substitutes for each other, both in terms of economics and sensory and health-promoting properties.