Why did Xi and China’s first lady bring their own flasks to White House banquet?

Amid the polished silverware and fine crystal stemware on display at the state dinner in the White House on Thursday sat the vacuum flasks brought by Chinese President Xi Jinping and first lady Peng Liyuan.
The couple’s flasks, black for Xi and white for Peng, were spotted on their table during the formal dinner, signalling a subtle self-assurance as cultural authenticity met high diplomacy.
Extending this everyday practice to the White House banquet was in tune with the host nation’s own eccentricity. US President Donald Trump’s fondness for Diet Coke – summoned via a dedicated red button on his Oval Office desk – is legendary.

The sight was unexpected in a formal state setting, yet deeply familiar to those with experience of Chinese culture.
In China, many people carry vacuum flasks filled with hot beverages once they pass a certain age, as warm liquids are thought to be better for digestion according to traditional Chinese medicine principles. Often, these flasks also contain herbs or berries believed to have medicinal value, such as goji berries. While it is unclear what Xi and Peng’s flasks contained, this is the most likely answer.

The national devotion to warm drinks is built into China’s public infrastructure. Every domestic high-speed railway station, airport terminal and public rest stop across the country comes equipped with free, dedicated boiling-water taps, allowing commuters and travellers to refill their flasks on the go.
Many Chinese tourists who travel to Western nations also carry their own vacuum flasks, allowing them to skip iced water or other chilled beverages.
A preference for traditional hot beverages is also a feature of China’s domestic political routine.
During major political gatherings in Beijing, such as the annual parliamentary meetings, the Chinese president is routinely flanked by two distinct teacups on his desk – a unique arrangement that sets him apart from other senior officials, who typically receive a single cup refilled periodically by attendants.