Two hundred and fifty years after the Boston Tea Party, a fresh dispute has emerged between Britain and the United States, but this time it is over the beloved beverage itself. The British media has erupted with anger and confusion after a US scientist claimed that the perfect cup of tea includes a pinch of added salt.

Michelle Francl, a renowned chemistry professor at Pennsylvania's Bryn Mawr College, has delved into the molecular science behind a good cuppa and argues that the addition of salt reduces the tea's bitterness. However, Brits, known for their strong beliefs in the art of brewing, have taken to social media to vehemently oppose the idea, triggering a transatlantic war of words.

The suggestion has sparked an array of reactions online, with legal journalist Molly Quell writing, "I guess we are going to war again?" and British comedian Matt Green asking, "What is going on over there?"

In her defense, Professor Francl emphasized that the salt should be used in minuscule quantities that cannot even be tasted, as it effectively blocks the perception of bitterness. Delivered to CNN affiliate ITV News, her radical proposal only further fueled the transatlantic dispute.

As tensions reached boiling point, the US Embassy in the UK stepped in to distance itself from the controversial recommendation, ensuring the British public that salted tea is not, and will never be, official US policy. The embassy's statement aimed to quell rising concerns and dipped Professor Francl back into hot water.

The British press did not hold back, with the Guardian reporting, "A scientist from the country where you can find tea being made with lukewarm water from the tap claims to have found the recipe for a perfect cuppa." The Daily Mail added its own criticism, highlighting that Professor Francl's findings come from a country where tea often takes a backseat to coffee and is typically served iced.

Amidst the fiery debate, it remains to be seen whether the US Embassy's intervention will suffice in calming the waters. Meanwhile, the embassy made it clear that they will continue to prepare tea the "proper way" - by microwaving it.

As the tea-centric clash continues to stir up controversy and cultural misunderstandings, one thing is certain - the long-standing British-American alliance may need some extra brewing time to overcome this salty tea dilemma.