Do Lipton Tea Bags Have More Caffeine Than Coffee?

November 14, 2025 •

3 min read

An average 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 95 mg of caffeine, while a standard Lipton black tea bag yields around 55 mg in the same serving size. The short answer is no, Lipton tea bags do not typically have more caffeine than coffee, but the full story involves several factors that influence the final caffeine content of your cup.

Quick Summary

This article debunks the myth that Lipton tea contains more caffeine than coffee. It details the average caffeine content for both beverages, explains how brewing techniques and tea type affect levels, and highlights the roles of other compounds like L-theanine in the overall effect.

Key Points

Caffeine content is lower: A standard Lipton black tea bag (approx. 55 mg) has significantly less caffeine per 8 oz cup than an average brewed coffee (approx. 95-200 mg).
L-theanine provides balanced energy: Tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that works with caffeine to promote calm, focused alertness without the jitters and crash associated with coffee.
Brewing factors matter: Water temperature and steeping duration directly influence how much caffeine is extracted from the tea leaves, affecting the final concentration in your cup.
Coffee uses more ingredients: The higher ground-to-water ratio used in making coffee is a key reason for its higher caffeine content compared to a single tea bag.
Variety influences content: Different types of tea, even within the Lipton brand, contain varying levels of caffeine, with black tea being higher than green tea.
Consider your sensitivity: The different stimulant profiles of tea and coffee mean that individuals sensitive to high caffeine doses might prefer the milder and smoother effect of tea.

Caffeine Content: The Basic Comparison

While it's a common myth that tea contains more caffeine than coffee, the reality is that the average cup of coffee consistently delivers a higher caffeine dose. The main reasons for this lie in the differences in plant composition, brewing methods, and ingredient-to-water ratios. Lipton specifically sources black tea leaves, which contain one of the higher caffeine levels among true teas, yet still falls below a standard cup of coffee.

How Much Caffeine is in a Lipton Black Tea Bag?

According to Lipton and other sources, a single 8-ounce serving of black tea made from one Lipton tea bag contains approximately 55 mg of caffeine. This is a consistent and moderate amount that provides an energy lift without the intensity often associated with coffee. This makes it a popular choice for those seeking a less potent caffeine experience. Lipton's green tea varieties contain significantly less caffeine, typically ranging from 28 to 38 mg per bag.

How Does Coffee's Caffeine Compare?

Coffee's caffeine content is much more variable, depending on the bean type, roast level, and brewing method. An 8-ounce cup of standard brewed coffee typically falls between 95 and 200 mg of caffeine. Specialty coffees and different brewing styles can push these numbers even higher. For instance, a grande (16 oz) Starbucks coffee can exceed 300 mg.

Factors Influencing Caffeine Levels in Your Cup

Several variables determine the final caffeine level of both your tea and coffee. Understanding these can help you better control your intake.

Brewing Method and Time

Water Temperature: Hotter water extracts more caffeine from tea leaves. Black tea, which is brewed at a higher temperature than green or white tea, will yield more caffeine. Similarly, the boiling water used for drip coffee efficiently extracts caffeine from the grounds.
Steep Time: The longer you steep a Lipton tea bag, the more caffeine will be released into your cup. Extending the brewing time for coffee also increases its caffeine concentration, as seen with stronger-brewed methods like a French press.
Ingredient Ratio: Coffee generally uses a much higher ground-to-water ratio than tea. This higher concentration of caffeinated material is a primary reason why the final coffee beverage has more caffeine.

Tea and Coffee Varieties

Tea Types: All true teas (black, green, white, oolong) come from the Camellia sinensis plant, but processing and harvest time affect their caffeine content. Black tea is typically highest, followed by oolong, green, and finally, white tea. Herbal teas, which are not from the Camellia sinensis plant, are naturally caffeine-free.
Coffee Bean Species: Arabica beans have lower caffeine content than Robusta beans, which are known for their strong flavor and high caffeine levels. Many commercial coffees use a blend of both bean types.

Caffeine Effects: Jitters vs. Calm Alertness

Another key difference lies in how the caffeine from tea and coffee affects your body. Coffee provides a rapid and intense stimulant effect, which can sometimes cause jitters or a crash later. Tea, on the other hand, contains the amino acid L-theanine, which works with caffeine to promote a state of calm, focused alertness. L-theanine slows the absorption of caffeine, leading to a smoother, more sustained energy boost and reducing the anxious side effects.

Comparison Table: Lipton Tea vs. Coffee


Feature	Lipton Black Tea (8 oz)	Average Brewed Coffee (8 oz)	Notes
Caffeine Content	~55 mg	95-200 mg	Coffee is almost always higher in caffeine.
Other Active Compounds	Contains L-theanine	Primarily caffeine	L-theanine provides calm focus in tea.
Energy Effect	Sustained and steady	Quick, intense boost with potential crash	The different effects are a key differentiator.
Brewing Time	~2 minutes	Varies, but often 4-5 minutes	Affects final caffeine extraction significantly.
Sensitivity	Milder, suitable for those sensitive to caffeine	More likely to cause jitters in sensitive individuals	The experience is different due to L-theanine.

Conclusion

In summary, the notion that Lipton tea bags have more caffeine than coffee is incorrect. A typical cup of brewed coffee contains a significantly higher dose of caffeine compared to a single Lipton black tea bag. The key distinction lies not just in the quantity but also in the quality of the energy boost. While coffee offers a powerful, fast-acting jolt, Lipton black tea provides a more moderate, sustained lift due to the presence of L-theanine. For those mindful of their caffeine intake or sensitive to its intense effects, Lipton tea presents a balanced alternative. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference and desired energy outcome.

For more detailed information on caffeine and its effects, you can consult reliable health sources such as Healthline.

Frequently Asked Questions

An 8-ounce cup of black tea from a single Lipton tea bag contains approximately 55 mg of caffeine.

Lipton's black tea bags have more caffeine (approx. 55 mg) than their green tea options, which typically contain 28-38 mg per bag.

Coffee provides a faster and more intense stimulant effect due to its higher caffeine content and the absence of L-theanine, which is present in tea and moderates the caffeine's effects.

Yes, you can increase the caffeine by steeping the tea bag for a longer period of time or using hotter water, which helps extract more caffeine from the leaves.

Yes, on a gram-for-gram basis before brewing, tea leaves have a higher caffeine concentration than coffee beans. However, the brewing process and amount of material used lead to a higher caffeine content in a finished cup of coffee.

No, the caffeine molecule is chemically identical whether it comes from coffee or tea. The different effects people feel are due to the dosage and the presence of other compounds like L-theanine in tea.

Yes, Lipton black tea is a good lower-caffeine alternative for those looking to reduce their intake. It offers a milder, more sustained energy boost compared to coffee's intense jolt.