Earl Grey Tea Caffeine: Less Than You Think
Earl Grey tea, a popular black tea blend infused with the citrusy flavor of bergamot, has been enjoyed worldwide for centuries. The unique taste and aroma make it a staple in many tea collections. But Earl Grey tea’s caffeine content is a topic of interest for those looking to moderate intake.
Yes, a standard cup of Earl Grey tea may contain around 40-70 milligrams of caffeine. A regular 8-ounce cup of coffee contains approximately 95 milligrams of caffeine.
Although Earl Grey tea contains caffeine, the exact amount found can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of tea leaves used and the processing methods employed.
This blog will provide an overview of what caffeine levels you can expect from different Earl Grey Tea types and some tips for brewing the perfect cup.
What’s In Earl Grey Tea?
Earl Grey tea is flavored tea that combines quality black tea leaves with bergamot oil.
The key ingredient in Earl Grey tea is bergamot oil which provides a distinct orange flavor. Bergamot oranges look like a cross between an orange and a lime but taste more like a lemon. It’s a unique fruit that contains the flavor of multiple citrus fruits blended in one.
Earl Grey tea is traditionally made of a black tea blend such as Chinese Keemun. Some versions include Ceylon or lapsang souchong tea as well. The variety of black tea will change the strength and flavor profile.
Traditional varieties contain natural caffeine from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Decaffeinated Earl Grey Tea uses a chemical process to remove most of the caffeine from its ingredients before packaging.
Does Earl Grey Tea Have Caffeine?
Earl Grey tea has caffeine because its tea leaves are sourced from the Camelia sinensis plant. A standard 8-ounce serving of Earl Grey tea contains around 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine.
Multiple factors influence how much caffeine ends up in your cup, such as the type of tea, tea fermentation process, brewing time, amount of tea leaves, and water temperature.
For example, steeping a cup of early grey tea for 5 minutes will release more caffeine than just 1 minute.
Whether you need something light to drink in the afternoon or looking for an alternative to coffee before bedtime, Earl Grey tea can be a nice option
5 Factors That Affect Caffeine Content
Here are five common factors that will alter the level of caffeine in your Earl Grey tea.
1. Tea Blend
Different Earl Grey tea blends have varying levels of caffeine. The main ingredient is black tea which contains 40-70 mg of caffeine per 8 oz serving. Adding more ingredients like bergamot, herbs, or flowers can slightly lower the caffeine content.
2. Steeping Time
The caffeine content increases with steeping time. A shorter steeping time will result in less caffeine, while a longer steeping time will extract more caffeine from the tea leaves.
3. Water Temperature
The water temperature also influences caffeine content. Higher water temperatures encourage faster and more efficient extraction, resulting in a higher caffeine content in the brewed tea. Try cold steeping tea for a milder caffeine level and flavor.
4. Quality of Tea
Higher-quality tea leaves generally contain more caffeine. Tea leaves that have been harvested during peak season and properly processed will have a higher caffeine concentration.
5. Serving Size
The serving size directly affects the total caffeine content in a cup. A smaller serving will have less caffeine, while a larger serving will have more. To manage caffeine intake, adjust the serving size accordingly.
Comparing Earl Grey Tea Caffeine Vs. Other Popular Teas
Earl Grey tea has a similar caffeine content to other black teas. But when compared to other popular teas, it contains less caffeine.
Here’s a comparison chart looking at the caffeine levels of some teas, such as green tea, oolong tea, and others with lower caffeine content.
| Tea Type | Caffeine Content (per 8-ounce serving) |
|---|---|
| Black Tea | 47-90 mg |
| Green Tea | 20-45 mg |
| White Tea | 6-60 mg |
| Oolong Tea | 37-55 mg |
| Herbal Tea | 0 mg |
| Rooibos Tea | 0 mg |
| Mate Tea | 30-50 mg |
| Chai Tea | 30-50 mg |
| Earl Grey Tea | 30-60 mg |
| Jasmine Tea | 25-45 mg |
Comparing Earl Grey Tea Caffeine vs. English Breakfast
English Breakfast tea and Earl Grey tea are both popular types of black tea, but they vary in their caffeine content.
The average cup of English Breakfast tea can contain between 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine, while a cup of Earl Grey tea generally has around 30 to 50 milligrams. However, these figures can vary depending on the tea brand, steeping time, and water temperature.
English Breakfast tea contains a higher level of caffeine compared to Earl Grey. This is primarily because English Breakfast is made from a blend of robust tea leaves, while Earl Grey has a milder tea base.
Comparing Earl Grey Tea Caffeine Vs. Coffee
Since Earl Grey tea contains caffeine, one common question is about the comparison with coffee. To better understand the disparity, let’s compare the caffeine content in Earl Grey tea to different types of coffee:
| Beverage | Caffeine Content (mg) |
| Earl Grey tea | 40-70 mg |
| Coffee | 95-165 mg |
| Espresso | 63 mg per shot |
| Latte | 63-126 mg |
| Cold Brew | 100-200 mg |
| Cappuccino | 63-126 mg |
It’s evident table that Earl Grey tea contains much less caffeine than the variation types of coffee. Espresso-based drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos have caffeine levels within the range of 63-126 mg, depending on the number of espresso shots used. Meanwhile, cold brew coffee has a higher caffeine content, around 100-200 mg.
Earl Grey tea might be a good option for those looking for a coffee alternative. It has less caffeine, so it’s much better for anyone trying to reduce their caffeine intake.
Comparing Earl Grey Tea Caffeine From Popular Brands
When it comes to the caffeine content of Earl Grey tea, various brands have slightly different amounts. To help you make an informed choice, we have compared the caffeine content of some popular Earl Grey tea brands.
Generally speaking, the majority of brands have similar caffeine levels.
| Brand | Caffeine Content (mg per 8 oz) |
|---|---|
| Stash Tea: Double Bergamot Earl Grey | 40-50 mg |
| Tazo Earl Grey | 60-70 mg |
| Twinings Earl Grey | 20-30 mg |
| Harney & Sons: Earl Grey Supreme | 40-70 mg |
| Bigelow: Earl Grey | 40-60 mg |
| Teavana: Earl Grey Crème | 40-60 mg |
| Vahdam Teas: Earl Grey | 50 mg |
| Art Of Tea: Earl Grey Crème | 40-60 mg |
While most of these brands fall within a similar caffeine range, Tazo Earl Grey has slightly higher content making it a more energizing option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a milder experience, Bigelow offers a lower caffeine content.
Does Decaffeinated Earl Grey Tea Have Caffeine?
In a standard 8 oz serving, the caffeine levels in decaf Earl Grey tea are significantly reduced compared to the caffeinated version. Decaffeination doesn’t remove everything, so a decaf Earl Grey tea contains approximately 4 mg of caffeine.
Various decaffeination methods are used to create this beloved beverage, each targeting the removal of caffeine while keeping its essential aroma and taste intact. Common decaffeination processes include using solvents, such as water and CO2, to extract caffeine from the tea leaves.
The actual level depends on factors such as the specific decaffeination process and the tea blend used.
Health Benefits of Earl Grey Tea
Like black tea, Earl Grey tea has numerous potential benefits that can improve digestion, cardiovascular health, and cancer prevention. Tea leaves are rich in polyphenols and compounds containing antioxidants to protect your body.
Reduce Inflammation
Earl Grey contains antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases. Specifically, black tea contains theaflavin, a polyphenol that has an anti-inflammatory effect on your body.
Improves Brain Function
Black tea may improve brain function by improving memory retention and concentration. It contains caffeine and an amino acid called L-theanine. Combining both compounds helps increase the alpha activity in your brain, improving focus.
Lowers Cholesterol
Consuming black tea regularly can play a role in lowering LDL cholesterol. One study compared black tea with a placebo and found that total cholesterol was reduced by 3.8%, and LDL cholesterol was reduced by 7.5%. Drinking early grey tea can play a big part in reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.
Weight Loss
L-theanine, an amino acid found in Earl Grey tea, aids in weight loss by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving focus and energy levels. Additionally, the tea’s polyphenols contribute to better digestion and enhanced metabolism.
Final Thoughts
The amount of caffeine in Earl Grey Tea can vary greatly depending on a few factors.
For example, the amount of time used and the steeping time can change the caffeine level. Generally, one cup of steeped Earl Grey Tea has 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine. Earl Grey tea may be your best option if you’re looking for a subtle energy boost.
Ultimately, deciding what kind of tea best suits your needs is up to you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much caffeine is in one tea bag of Earl Grey?
A single tea bag of Earl Grey typically contains around 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine, depending on the brand and steeping time. The caffeine content can vary depending on factors such as tea leaf processing and preparation methods.
Is Earl Grey tea good for sleep?
Earl Grey tea contains caffeine, a stimulant that may affect sleep if consumed close to bedtime. It’s best to avoid Earl Grey in the evening or before bedtime to help maintain sleep quality.
Does Earl Grey have more caffeine than green tea?
Generally, Earl Grey tea has slightly more caffeine than green tea. Earl Grey is typically made from a blend of black tea leaves with higher caffeine content than green tea leaves. However, the amount of caffeine can vary depending on the blend.
When is the best time to drink Earl Grey Tea?
The effects of caffeine on your body depend on when the best time to drink Earl Grey tea is. Early Grey tea contains 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup. While it contains caffeine, it won’t provide the same energy boost as coffee. If you’re thinking of drinking Earl Grey Tea later in the day, adjust how much tea you brew and how strong you make it for ideal energy levels. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, avoid tea in the evening because it can cause poor sleep and jitteriness.
Does Earl Grey tea have more caffeine than coffee?
No, Earl Grey tea contains less caffeine than coffee. While Earl Grey tea has approximately 40 to 70 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup, coffee typically contains between 95 to 200 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup. Earl Grey tea is a good option for anyone who needs an energy boost without overconsuming too much caffeine.
How much caffeine is in Twinings Earl Grey tea?
Twinings Earl Grey tea contains around 19 to 22 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce cup, a relatively small amount. The caffeine level depends on the steeping time. For example, a 1-minute steep extract of 19 milligrams of caffeine, whereas a 3-minute steep extract of 22 milligrams. Generally speaking, it would take 3 to 4 cups of Twinings Earl Grey tea to equal the amount of caffeine in one cup of regular brewed black coffee.
Can I drink Earl Grey before bed?
No, drinking Earl Grey tea before bed is not recommended because it contains caffeine. A standard 8-ounce serving of Early Grey tea has around 40-70 mg of caffeine. This keeps you awake and disrupts sleep, especially if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
If you’re looking for a decaffeinated or low-caffeine tea to enjoy, check out this article: 10 Lowest Caffeine Teas You Should Try.
Is Earl Grey tea good for weight loss?
Yes, drinking Earl Grey tea can support weight loss if you’re following an exercise routine, a healthy lifestyle and eating nutritional meals. Earl Grey tea contains zero calories and can be a healthier alternative to sugary drinks. Early Grey state contains black tea, which is packed with polyphenol ECGC, known to burn fat. Another benefit of black tea is its role in lowering LDL cholesterol.
