Chinese tea chain Heytea removed a tea latte from its menu9 Moons available for less than a week, after allegations that the co-branded beverage violated Religious Affairs Regulations. Multiple local media reports indicate that Heytea introduced the controversial drink at RMB 19 ($2.7) in collaboration with Jingdezhen China Ceramics Museum on Nov. 28. The promotion featured a specially designed matching cup and fridge sticker showcasing the three Lohan porcelain. The National Religious Affairs of Shenzhen Bureau, Heytea’s headquarters, conducted a talk with the tea chain on Dec. 1. Subsequently, it acknowledged Heytea’s cooperation and stated that the company had admitted to its mistake “in a very good manner.” Although the religious regulation body did not specify the exact violation, the public widely believed that Heytea was accused of engaging in prohibited commercial propaganda under the guise of religion. [Jiemian, in Chinese]
