My coworker has seemed unusually cold to me since this conversation happened, so I'm worried that I insulted her. But I have no idea how to approach apologizing because I don't really understand why it'd be offensive. Idk if it's because Im neurodivergent, or because I'm an uncultured white american or both. Or maybe I'm completely off base, but its the only theory I can come up with.
So one coworker that sits by me has a kettle and an assortment of tea by his desk. He offered me some and I decided to make some coca tea. I had a cup of it once before, but I'm curious about it because I've never seen it elsewhere. And I know that cocaine comes from coca but this tea is definitely nothing like cocaine lol. So i googled it out of curiosity and learned that it's illegal in my country. I asked something like "did you get this from another country? Apparently its illegal here!" as Im starting to drink it, with a smile on my face so I think it was pretty obvious I wasn't judging or bothered by that. Also everyone within earshot is friendly with each other, and there's nobody around that would freak out about that or get us in trouble or anything.
My other coworker that sits by us is from Columbia, and tells me that she brought it from there. I can't remember what she said after that, but I think maybe she sounded a little miffed because I felt the need to clarify that I don't care that it's illegal.
This happened like 2 weeks ago but today is the first time we've both been in the office since then (we work hybrid and I don't have a set in-office schedule) and she still seemed cold. She's usually super friendly and talkative, but she didn't talk to me all day and ignored me saying goodbye when she left. So I feel like my theory is probably correct? I stated a fact I read online and didn't realize it was her tea, but I think she feels like I insulted her culture? That definitely wasn't my intention, and I want to apologize but I have no idea how to do so without coming off as defensive. Would greatly appreciate any insight!