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Does Milk Tea Have Caffeine? Everything You Need to Know

Author : lite facts | Published On : 30 Apr 2025

In this article, we'll dive deep into what drives up your favourite cup of milk tea, how much caffeine it contains, and how it compares to other popular drinks. We'll also answer some typical questions that might shock you. So grab your cup, and let's get into it!

1. What is Milk Tea?

Milk tea is made by mixing tea with milk, sugar, or other flavours like tapioca pearls (in bubble tea). It's popular across Asia and increasingly around the world, with variations in every culture—from British tea with milk to Thai and Taiwanese styles.

2. Types of Milk Tea

There are many types, including:

  • Black milk tea

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  • Green milk tea

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  • Oolong milk tea

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  • Thai milk tea

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  • Matcha milk tea

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  • Fruit-flavored milk teas

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Each type starts with a tea base, where caffeine sneaks in.

3. Where Does the Caffeine Come From?

The caffeine in milk tea comes from the tea leaves used to brew it. Different teas have different caffeine levels:

  • Black tea has the most.

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  • Green tea has a moderate amount.

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  • Oolong falls somewhere in between.

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  • Herbal teas are usually caffeine-free.

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Think of tea leaves as tiny energy batteries—they release caffeine when steeped in hot water.

4. Does All Milk Tea Contain Caffeine?

Not always. If the milk tea is made with a herbal base (like chamomile or rooibos), it likely has no caffeine. However, most traditional milk teas, especially bubble tea, are made with black or green tea, so they usually contain caffeine.

5. How Much Caffeine is in Milk Tea?

This varies depending on the tea base and preparation. Here's a general breakdown:

  • Black milk tea: 40–70 mg of caffeine per cup

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  • Green milk tea: 30–50 mg

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  • Matcha milk tea: Up to 70 mg or more

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  • Thai milk tea: 20–60 mg

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  • Herbal milk tea: 0 mg

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For comparison, a cup of coffee has 95–120 mg of caffeine.

6. Comparing Caffeine: Milk Tea vs. Coffee vs. Soda

Drink    Average Caffeine (per 8 oz)

Milk Tea    30–70 mg

Coffee    95–120 mg

Cola Soda    30–40 mg

Energy Drink    80–150 mg

Milk tea sits right in the middle—less than coffee but more than most sodas.

7. Popular Milk Tea Types and Their Caffeine Levels

Let's break it down by type:

  • Classic bubble tea (black tea): High caffeine

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  • Matcha latte: High caffeine

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  • Thai iced tea: Medium caffeine

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  • Jasmine green milk tea: Moderate caffeine

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  • Taro milk tea: Low to no caffeine (depends on base)

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Pro tip: Ask your barista what base is used—it makes a difference.

8. Can You Get Decaf Milk Tea?

Yes! Many places now offer decaf options or herbal bases. If you're avoiding caffeine, you can also request a half-tea blend or a milk-only version with flavouring.

9. Health Effects of Caffeine in Milk Tea

In moderation, caffeine can:

  • Improve focus

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  • Boost energy

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  • Lift mood

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But too much can lead to:

  • Jitters

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  • Insomnia

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  • Rapid heartbeat

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Milk tea is usually safe if you limit yourself to 1–2 cups daily.

10. When to Avoid Milk Tea

You might want to skip milk tea if you:

  • Are pregnant (limit caffeine intake)

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  • Have anxiety or sleep issues.

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  • Are caffeine-sensitive

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  • Are you drinking it too late in the day?

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Evening bubble tea runs might be fun—but they can mess with your sleep.

11. Tips for Reducing Caffeine in Your Milk Tea

  • Ask for less tea or decaf options.

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  • Mix with herbal tea

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  • Add more milk to dilute.

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  • Choose non-caffeinated flavours like taro or coconut.

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It's like turning down the volume without changing the song.

12. Why People Love Milk Tea Despite the Caffeine

Milk tea is more than just a drink—it's an experience. Whether it's the chewy tapioca pearls, the rich sweetness, or the cosy vibes, it's easy to see why so many people love caffeine.

13. Does Milk Affect the Caffeine Kick?

Yes, milk can slightly slow down caffeine absorption. It doesn'tdoesn't remove the caffeine, but it might make the effect feel gentler. So, if coffee hits you hard, milk tea might be a more comfortable option.

14. Milk Tea for Kids: Is It Safe?

Generally, kids under 12 should avoid caffeine. If they love milk tea, choose a caffeine-free version or keep it occasional and low in quantity. There are plenty of fun, flavorful options without tea.
 

15. Final Thoughts
If you're a casual drinker, there's no need to panic. Just be aware of what you're drinking and when. Like most things in life, it is all about balance.

FAQs

1. Does milk tea have more caffeine than coffee?

No, coffee generally has more caffeine than milk tea.

2. Can I drink milk tea every day?

Yes, in moderation—1 to 2 cups daily is usually delicate for most people.

3. Is taro milk tea caffeine-free?

It depends on the tea base, but it's often made with a non-caffeinated or low-caffeine base.

4. Can pregnant women drink milk tea?

Yes, but they should limit their caffeine intake and choose low-caffeine options.

5. How can I make caffeine-free milk tea at home?

Mix herbal teas like rooibos or chamomile with milk and your favourite flavours.