Ah, a steaming hot cup of tea. A British classic – ever since it was popularised by King Charles II, way back in the 1600s. To this day it is one of Britain’s most popular drinks. We should know, as tea is one of our most-sold items here at Office Groceries. In fact, according to Mintel, 70% of Brits drink black tea, and a further 34% drink herbal, green and speciality black teas. That’s a lot of tea. 165 million cups a day, to be precise.
Considering we consume so much of this tasty beverage, it’s natural that people are concerned with its caffeine content. But don’t fret about what to include in your tea delivery; Office Groceries has got your back. In this blog we will spill the tea on all things caffeine-related. You’ll be able to tell your oxidations from your oolongs in no time!
1. Oxidation in the nation
It’s a well-known fact that you can get your caffeine fix from your morning cup of coffee. But fewer people know that tea gives you that little pick-me-up, too. The effect is not the same for all teas, however. Known as ‘true teas’, black, oolong, green and white teas all come from the Camellia sinensis.
“Camellia? Who’s she? Never heard of her.” Well, that’s because she is the plant from which all these teas are derived. The leaves of this plant undergo a process called oxidation before they are made into tea. The extent of this process is the main factor that determines caffeine levels.
In your average 240ml cup of black tea you will find 60-90 mg of caffeine. That is the most of these four teas. Oolong tea comes next with 50-75 mg, followed by green tea with 35-70 mg. Last, but by no means least, we have white tea, sporting a timid 30-55 mg of caffeine.
So, when it comes to oxidation, black tea gives you the biggest fix for your first cuppa at the office. White tea, on the other hand, is probably best had before bed. Although, it’s worth including a variety in your office tea delivery. It’s not all about caffeine – it’s about taste too!
2. What’s all this brew-haha?
But hang on a second – it’s not that simple. There are other factors that affect the amount of caffeine in your brew. One being just that: brewing conditions.
If you leave your tea to steep for longer, no matter which of the four types, then there will be more caffeine released. The same goes for the temperature of the water. If you pour in water from the kettle when it’s fresh off the boil, then you’ll get more of a buzz in your cup. On top of that, if you use more tea leaves or a fuller tea bag, then… yep, you guessed it! More caffeine.
Tea grade is also a contributing factor. The grade of tea is a category that is assigned depending on the condition of the leaves that are being brewed. Whole grade leaves will release less caffeine than broken grade. Tea bags, for example, tend to hold very broken leaves, so they will release more caffeine than their loose leaf counterparts. So, bear in mind that it’s not always the types of leaves in your tea delivery that dictates caffeine. It’s the condition of it and how you treat them, also.
3. Should you be concerned about caffeine?
Caffeine is a staple for a lot of our diets. That essential morning fix when we’re starting our day in the office. Be it from a steaming cup of tea or a frothy cappuccino, we get our pick-me-up somehow. But is it good or bad for you?
Medical News Today report that caffeine can cause insomnia, nervousness, and increased heart rate. However, the effects of caffeine are different for everyone. It is also proven to increase concentration, combat tiredness and boost long-term memory. A study even showed caffeine has the potential to reduce the risk of developing certain cancers.
So, don’t get your knickers in a twist about how much caffeine your tea contains. Drink as much caffeine as you feel is good for you, personally. We hope this blog has been of interest and don’t forget to check out our wide range of teas for your office tea delivery!