Many people enjoy chai because it has a lot of healthy spices and smells delicious. What about caffeine content? Chai tea is often thought to contain a lot of caffeine, which is a concern. Does chai tea have a lot of caffeine?
Like coffee, chai tea does contain caffeine. But how much caffeine is in chai tea, and is chai tea an excellent alternative to coffee? Additionally, will chai keep you awake? Let’s explore how much caffeine is in chai tea vs. coffee and whether the chai tea at Starbucks contains caffeine.
How much caffeine is in a cup of chai tea?
Coffee contains more caffeine compared to chai because the latter comes from Camellia Sinensis leaves. Chai tea is made from an infusion of caffeinated black tea and spices, so chai tea contains caffeine. However, chai tea is considerably less caffeinated, containing 20mg – 60mg of caffeine per cup compared to the 70mg – 130mg that is in coffee.
Important note: The term “chai tea” is an oxymoron since “cha” is the Chinese word for tea, and many other countries use a version of that word as well. Essentially, the term chai tea translates to “tea tea.” As we are familiar within the West, Chai tea would be called “masala chai” in India, meaning spiced tea.
One of the key factors that affect the caffeine content in chai tea is how much caffeine is added during the product’s preparation. The method of preparing chai tea also impacts the caffeine content.
For example, if the chai tea is boiled instead of simmered, the caffeine level can increase significantly. If you let chai tea steep for longer, it will release more caffeine in the tea.
Since chai has a rich flavor, you might drink too much of it.
It is imperative to note that although chai tea has caffeine, consuming large quantities of this beverage won’t lead to many health problems. If you are still wondering whether chai tea contains caffeine, read on – we have compiled all the information about this topic to help you decide.
Does Starbucks chai tea have caffeine?
Yes, chai tea at Starbucks does indeed contain caffeine. The caffeine content is based on Starbucks standard recipes; ordering a custom drink will not provide an accurate caffeine count. Only changing the serving size will show the variation in caffeine content.
Starbucks has taken the traditional recipe to an entirely new level with the Starbucks iced chai tea latte. Made with chai tea concentrate, Sugar, Honey, Ginger Juice, Natural Flavors, Vanilla, Citric Acid, Starbucks iced chai tea latte is a delicious sweet and spicy treat.
One Grande size chai tea latte or iced chai latte drink (16 fl oz.) at Starbucks contains 95 mg of caffeine. Because chai tea concentrate is made using black tea, which is caffeinated, both chai tea latte and chai latte contain caffeine.
At Starbucks, you can customize your chai latte by choosing between espresso and shots option, chai pumps, tea powders, milk (dairy, non-dairy), sweeteners, and toppings. Do you know if you customize your latte with one or two espresso shots, it will result in more caffeine content, even more than a cup of joe? Yes, that’s true.
If you go for espresso shots add-on in chai latte or iced tea latte, beware that it will increase caffeine content in your chai tea or latte (One espresso shot at Starbucks contains 75mg of caffeine).
How much caffeine is in chai tea vs. coffee?
The caffeine content of chai tea varies depending on how you prepare it. The average cup of chai tea (8 oz.) contains 45 mg to 90 mg of caffeine. One grande (16 fl oz.) Chai tea at Starbucks has 40mg of caffeine (2 teabags).
You can customize chai tea by choosing sweeteners, milk add-ins, teabags, flavors, and toppings. Be careful when selecting chai tea at Starbucks, as adding more teabags will increase your caffeine consumption by customizing chai tea.
As per the Food and Drug Administration, one cup of coffee (8oz) contains 80 to 100 milligrams of caffeine. Caffeine levels in coffee can vary depending on the type of coffee beans, roasting method, type (instant, espresso, decaf), brand, brewing method, and serving size.
According to FDA, the daily recommended dose of caffeine is 200mg per serving or 400mg a day (about 4-5 cups of 8 oz. coffee). A previous study on the impact of caffeine on human health also found that reproductive-aged women shouldn’t consume more than 300 milligrams per day and children shouldn’t consume more than 2.5 mg per day.
One grande 16 fl oz. Caffè Americano contains 225 mg of caffeine, which is much more than the caffeine content in chai tea. In other words, 5 cups of chai tea will equal 1 cup of coffee in caffeine content.
Is Chai Tea a good alternative to coffee?
Chai tea is a blend of black tea, milk, and exotic spices that come together to create a unique and delicious flavor. It is a good alternative! If you’re looking for an energy boost and want to cut back on your caffeine intake but don’t want to stop drinking coffee altogether, then chai tea is a great substitute.
Whether it’s a nice warm cup of chai tea or a delicious iced chai tea latte, many people enjoy a warm drink to get them through the day. Chai tea will give you the energy to start the day, relax, and put you in a good mood.
Chai tea is also a great drink if you want to replace coffee with something that is not as strong and will not give you the same jittery feeling that coffee does. It is a better alternative because the caffeine in chai tea is released much slower than in coffee. It also has a vibrant and distinct flavor that people who regularly drink it can’t get enough of it.
Chai tea tastes out of the world with the addition of coconut milk; this non-dairy milk alternative makes it a little sweeter and gives the tea a creamy and smooth texture. So, if you are looking for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up without feeling jittery, try chai tea.
Both chai tea and coffee are excellent sources of antioxidants, which protect our bodies against free radicals. But chai tea contains other beneficial nutrients such as vitamin B6, calcium, and magnesium that are not found in coffee. Hence, chai tea is a healthy alternative to coffee.
Will chai tea keep you awake?
Chai tea isn’t known for its stimulating properties. However, several people who drink chai regularly get jitters and feel sleepy. This condition usually occurs during working hours and is caused by high levels of caffeine. If you think that chai tea keeps you up at night, try switching to decaf varieties or reducing your daily intake.
Does chai latte have coffee?
The answer to this question is no. Chai latte is a popular beverage that’s similar to coffee but is not actually coffee. Chai latte does not have coffee in it. However, you can ask for espresso shots in chai latte if you’re ordering it from Starbucks for that extra kick.
Your barista will ask you how you want to customize your chai latte when you place your order for it.
Which Chai Tea Brands Have Caffeine?
Unlike regular black tea, the caffeine content in chai varies from brand to brand. The higher the caffeine content, the more energy your body gets. Therefore, you should always check the label before buying any chai tea.
Chai tea is one of the best options for anyone who wants to stay alert throughout the entire day. Some brands contain high amounts of caffeine, like 500 mg per 150 ml pack, while others only have 20-30 mg per packet. Some even contain zero caffeine.
- Tazo Organic Chai Tea – Tazo Organic Chai Tea is a spiced black tea with a savory combination of spices with a moderate caffeine level. Tazo Organic Chai Tea has a bold, spicy flavor perfect for those chilly fall days. Enjoy this tea hot or iced for a spiced beverage that will get you going in the morning.
- David Rio Tiger Chai Tea – What would a day be without a hot, or at least iced, beverage in hand? David Rio Tiger Chai Tea is an innovative take on the classic drink that provides a caffeinated boost and comes with various natural health benefits. Rich and robust, this Chai Tea blend freshly brewed black tea and chai spices. This all-natural tea blend is organic, non-GMO, and kosher certified. The David Rio Tiger Chai Tea is a must-have for your pantry with an authentic and exquisite taste.
- Tim Hortons Chai Tea Bags – Enjoy the perfect cup of tea with Tim Hortons Chai Tea Blend. Tim Hortons Chai Tea is a refreshing aromatic black tea with traditional healthy spices. This combination of black tea and spices will warm you up on a cold day. Each box contains 20 teabags made with natural loose-leaf tea, giving it a rich flavor.
Is There Decaf Chai Tea?
There are numerous varieties of chai tea available on the market today. If you want to enjoy the taste of chai without getting jittery or experiencing drowsiness, opt for decaf varieties (which don’t contain caffeine) like Stash Decaf Chai Tea.
- Stash Decaf Chai Tea – It’s time to let go of your caffeine addiction. Stash Decaf Chai Tea is the perfect alternative to your morning cup of coffee. With cinnamon, clove, ginger, and cardamom, this tea still has all the rich flavors and benefits of a caffeinated chai.
You’ll love the rich and creamy taste of Stash decaf chai tea. This decaffeinated tea is perfect for people who want to enjoy the flavor of a caffeinated chai without the caffeine. This kosher-certified tea is decaffeinated and gluten-free. Each tea bag is individually foil-wrapped to preserve freshness. - DAVID RIO Tiger Spice Decaffeinated Chai – This deliciously flavorful decaffeinated chai is made with premium black tea, providing a smooth and satisfying flavor. Use David Rio Tiger Spice Decaffeinated chai as a healthy alternative to traditional options.
- Twinings Decaf Chai Tea – Twinings Decaf Chai Tea is a delightful and satisfying spice blend that has been crafted with the perfect balance of exotic flavors. The smooth and rich taste of black tea, naturally decaffeinated, is the ideal medium for this full-bodied blend with a sweet and spicy touch—just as your grandmother used to make it.
Benefits of Chai Tea
We are sure that you’ve heard about the popularity of chai tea among people all over America. Its popularity may be attributed to its taste. Moreover, it is healthier than your cup of joe.
Chai tea has many health benefits.
It is loaded with antioxidants, which help keep you healthy and fight off illnesses. It can increase your energy levels, prevent diabetes and cancer, boost brain function, and improve mood. Chai tea also has a calming effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
1. It helps with digestion: Drinking chai tea can help with digestion. It contains ingredients such as ginger and cinnamon, which help to stimulate the digestive system.
2. It promotes weight loss: Drinking chai tea can help you lose weight because it contains ingredients such as ginger and cinnamon, known for their fat-burning properties.
3. It is an energy booster: Chai tea is the perfect way to kick-start your day. It’s made with a blend of spices and herbs that will have you feeling energized and ready for anything.
In some instances, however, drinking chai tea may not be recommended for:
- Pregnant Women
- Children under 5 years of age
- People suffering from cardiac disorders
- Asthma patients
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Photo altered by dejittr.com | Photo attribution: Ayaneshu Bhardwaj
