Does Jujube Tea Have Sugar? The Natural and Added Sweetness Explained

November 15, 2025 •

3 min read

Jujube fruits, the primary ingredient in jujube tea, naturally contain a high concentration of carbohydrates and sugars, which contribute to the beverage's inherent sweetness. This means that even without a single gram of added sweetener, the resulting tea will not be sugar-free.

Quick Summary

Jujube tea contains natural sugar from the fruit, and many commercial varieties also have added sweeteners. The overall sugar content varies significantly depending on whether the tea is homemade from dried fruit or a pre-packaged product. Careful ingredient checking is vital for controlling sugar intake.

Key Points

Natural Sugar: Jujube fruit contains natural sugars like fructose and glucose, so the tea is never entirely sugar-free.
Commercial vs. Homemade: Homemade jujube tea uses only the fruit's natural sweetness, while most commercial products add extra refined sugar and other sweeteners.
Dried Fruit Concentration: Dried jujubes, commonly used for tea, have a higher concentration of natural sugars than fresh ones due to water removal.
For Diabetics: Individuals with diabetes should be mindful of the sugar content in all forms of jujube tea and should consult a doctor, especially regarding commercial products.
Ingredient Control: Making your own jujube tea is the best way to control the exact amount of sugar you consume, relying solely on the fruit's inherent flavor.
Health Benefits: Besides sugar, jujube offers fiber and antioxidants, which contribute to its overall health profile and slow sugar absorption.

Understanding Jujube's Natural Sweetness

The sweetness found in jujube tea is derived directly from the jujube fruit itself, also known as the Chinese or red date. These fruits are naturally rich in various sugars, including fructose and glucose, which are released into the water when the fruit is simmered. The sweet flavor is pleasant and calming, but it's crucial to understand that it is not sugar-free. The concentration of this natural sugar intensifies significantly when the fruits are dried, which is the most common form used for making tea.

The Impact of Processing on Sugar Content

Dried jujubes are a popular ingredient for tea and other snacks because the drying process concentrates their flavor and sugars. While a fresh jujube is less concentrated, a tea made from dried jujubes will be noticeably sweeter and higher in natural sugar simply due to the removal of water. This is a key point for anyone monitoring their sugar intake, as the sweetness is a direct reflection of the fruit's natural composition.

Commercial Jujube Tea: A Potential Sugar Trap

When buying jujube tea, particularly concentrates, syrups, or instant mixes, it's critical to scrutinize the ingredient list. Many commercially prepared products add extra sweeteners to enhance the flavor and appeal to a broader consumer market. Common added ingredients include:

Fructose
Refined sugar
Honey
Syrups

Some products can contain very high levels of added sugar, turning a potentially healthy beverage into a high-calorie, sugary drink. This practice changes the nutritional profile entirely and can negate many of the tea's natural benefits for individuals who need to manage their blood sugar, such as those with diabetes.

Homemade Jujube Tea: Controlling Your Ingredients

Making your own jujube tea is the best way to manage its sugar content. By simply simmering dried jujube fruit in water, you control exactly what goes into your cup. The recipe is straightforward and requires no added sweeteners.

A Simple Homemade Jujube Tea Recipe:

Thoroughly wash and rinse 8-10 dried jujubes.
Slice each jujube in half to expose the fruit and allow the flavor to release.
Place the jujubes in a pot with 4-6 cups of water and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes. The longer you simmer, the richer and sweeter the tea will be.
Strain the tea into a mug and enjoy. For added complexity, you can add a slice of ginger or a cinnamon stick during the simmer.

Comparison Table: Homemade vs. Commercial Jujube Tea


Feature	Homemade Jujube Tea	Commercial Jujube Tea (Syrup/Concentrate)
Sugar Source	Natural fruit sugars (fructose, glucose)	Natural fruit sugars PLUS added refined sugar, fructose, honey
Sugar Content	Varies based on fruit concentration and simmer time	Significantly higher due to added sweeteners
Ingredient Control	Complete control; only uses water and jujubes	Limited to no control; check labels for added ingredients
Additives	None	May contain thickeners, emulsifiers, and other artificial flavors
Sweetness	Mild and naturally derived from the fruit	Often intensely sweet and can taste artificial

Health Implications and Considerations

For most people, the natural sugars in homemade jujube tea are not a concern when consumed in moderation. The fruit is also rich in fiber, which can help slow down the absorption of sugar. However, individuals with diabetes or those following a low-sugar diet must exercise caution. While some studies suggest jujube fruit may offer benefits for managing blood sugar, particularly at doses over 30 grams, the overall sugar content must be considered. The fiber and antioxidant compounds in jujube can be beneficial, but the sugar must be factored into your daily intake. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding dietary changes, especially for managing conditions like diabetes.

Conclusion

In short, does jujube tea have sugar? Yes, it does. All jujube tea, whether homemade or commercial, contains natural sugar from the fruit itself. However, the crucial distinction lies in the potential for added sugars in commercially available products. By opting for a homemade brew from dried jujubes and water, you can enjoy the fruit's natural sweetness and health benefits while avoiding the excessive, refined sugars found in many store-bought alternatives. Controlling your ingredients is the key to ensuring your jujube tea is a truly wholesome and low-sugar beverage.

Clinical studies focused on the effects of jujube on patients with type 2 diabetes have found some beneficial metabolic effects, but recommend further research.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, homemade jujube tea is not sugar-free because the jujube fruit itself contains natural sugars like fructose and glucose. However, it does not contain any added, refined sugars if made with just fruit and water.

Yes, dried jujubes have a much higher concentration of sugar per serving than fresh ones. The drying process removes water, which concentrates the natural sugars present in the fruit.

People with diabetes should be cautious when drinking jujube tea due to the natural and often added sugar content. It is best to consult with a healthcare provider and carefully manage intake, especially of commercial products with high added sugar.

To make jujube tea without added sugar, simply simmer dried jujube fruit slices in water until the liquid turns a rich color. The natural sweetness from the fruit will flavor the tea without needing any extra sweeteners.

Natural sugar comes directly from the jujube fruit itself (fructose, glucose) and is present in all jujube teas. Added sugar, like refined sugar or honey, is put into commercial products to increase sweetness.

Yes, it is crucial to check the ingredient list of any pre-packaged jujube tea. Many commercial versions are heavily sweetened with refined sugars, fructose, or honey, which can significantly increase the total sugar content.

Yes, simmering the jujubes for a longer time will produce a richer, sweeter, and more concentrated tea as more natural sugars are extracted from the fruit into the water.