Thai tea, known in Thailand as Cha Yen, is a sweet, creamy beverage recognized for its distinctive orange color and spiced flavor. This popular drink is made from a base of strongly brewed black tea, which is the sole source of its caffeine content. The amount of caffeine in a standard 8-ounce serving typically falls within a range of 20 to 60 milligrams (mg).
The Typical Caffeine Range and Source
The caffeine in Thai tea originates entirely from the black tea leaves used in its preparation. Traditional recipes rely on black tea varieties, most commonly Ceylon or Assam tea, to create a strong, full-bodied base. These tea types are naturally high in caffeine, which is a methylxanthine compound that acts as a central nervous system stimulant.
The preparation method for Cha Yen involves brewing the tea leaves at a high concentration, often steeping them for an extended period. This strong initial brew is necessary for the tea’s flavor to stand up against the rich additions of sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk. The final 8-ounce serving retains a moderate caffeine level, generally averaging around 47 mg.
Factors Influencing Caffeine Levels
The wide 20 to 60 mg range results from several preparation variables that affect caffeine extraction. The duration of the steeping process is a major determinant, as a longer brewing time allows more caffeine to dissolve from the leaves into the water. Similarly, the quantity of tea leaves used directly correlates with the final caffeine concentration. A higher ratio of tea leaves to water will yield a more caffeinated beverage.
Serving size is the most significant factor influencing a consumer’s total caffeine intake from Thai tea. While the 20-60 mg range applies to a standard 8-ounce cup, many restaurants and boba shops serve Thai tea in much larger containers, such as 16-ounce, 20-ounce, or 24-ounce cups. A 24-ounce serving could contain three times the caffeine of an 8-ounce serving, potentially delivering up to 180 mg of caffeine in a single drink.
Comparison to Common Beverages
A standard 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains a significantly higher amount of caffeine, typically ranging from 95 to 200 mg. This means that a typical cup of coffee can have three to four times the caffeine of an average 8-ounce Thai tea.
In contrast, a plain 8-ounce cup of black tea, which is the base for Cha Yen, generally contains 40 to 70 mg of caffeine, making it comparable to or slightly higher than the final Thai tea product. The slight reduction in the final Thai tea beverage is due to the dilution from the added milk and ice. A 12-ounce can of cola or soda contains a much lower amount, usually between 30 and 40 mg of caffeine.