Is there any caffeine in pink tea?

January 6, 2026 •

3 min read

While some may think pink tea is caffeine-free, the presence of green tea leaves means it does contain some caffeine. This creamy, rosy-hued beverage, known traditionally as Kashmiri chai or noon chai, offers a much lower caffeine kick compared to black tea or coffee.

Quick Summary

Traditional pink tea, or Kashmiri chai, contains a low amount of caffeine due to its green tea base. The actual caffeine content can vary depending on the preparation method and type of leaves used. It provides a gentler, more sustained energy boost than coffee, making it a popular choice for those sensitive to caffeine.

Key Points

Caffeine Present: Authentic pink tea, also known as Kashmiri chai, contains caffeine because it is made with green tea leaves.
Lower Content: The caffeine level in pink tea is notably lower than in black tea and much lower than in coffee.
Gentle Boost: Green tea also contains L-theanine, which promotes a calm and focused alertness rather than the jitters from high caffeine.
Source of Caffeine: The caffeine comes from the green tea leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, which are a primary ingredient.
Ingredient Impact: For those sensitive to caffeine, it's crucial to check labels, as some pre-mixed or cafe versions may differ from the traditional recipe.
Herbal Alternatives: Truly caffeine-free pink beverages are typically herbal infusions, such as hibiscus, rather than genuine pink tea.
Brewing Matters: The long brewing process can concentrate the flavor, but the final caffeine content is still determined by the type and amount of tea leaves used.

Understanding Pink Tea and Its Caffeine Source

Pink tea, most notably Kashmiri chai or noon chai, is a beloved, creamy, and nutty beverage, but its relationship with caffeine is a frequent point of confusion. Unlike many herbal infusions that are naturally caffeine-free, authentic pink tea is not. The source of its caffeine lies in its key ingredient: green tea leaves. These are not just any green tea leaves, but often specific Kashmiri or Chinese varieties chosen for their robust flavor and color-releasing properties.

When green tea leaves are processed, they retain their natural caffeine content. The concentration of caffeine in green tea is naturally lower than in black tea, which is the foundation for many other chai varieties. The unique preparation method of pink tea, which involves a long simmering and aeration process, also influences the final caffeine level. While the process of making the 'kahwa' (the tea concentrate) is long, it doesn't eliminate the caffeine but rather concentrates the tea's flavor and color.

The Brewing Process and Caffeine Extraction

The traditional method of making Kashmiri chai is a lengthy process involving specific ingredients and techniques.

Initial Brew: Green tea leaves are boiled with water, spices, and a pinch of baking soda. The baking soda is crucial for the chemical reaction that eventually produces the pink color, not for caffeine removal.
Aeration: The mixture is continuously whisked or aerated, often by pouring it from a height. This step, along with the addition of cold water, helps intensify the color and flavor.
Concentration: The tea is simmered for an extended period, which creates a concentrated base. This concentrate is then stored.
Final Preparation: When serving, the concentrate is mixed with milk and reheated, further diluting the caffeine concentration per serving.

Pink Tea vs. Other Caffeinated Beverages


Beverage	Caffeine Content (per 8 oz / 240ml)	Caffeine Source	Typical Flavor Profile
Kashmiri Pink Tea	15-30 mg	Green Tea Leaves	Creamy, salty or sweet, nutty, with hints of spice
Black Tea Chai	30-50 mg	Black Tea Leaves	Robust, spicy, earthy
Green Tea (plain)	20-45 mg	Green Tea Leaves	Grassy, vegetal, sometimes slightly bitter
Coffee	95-165 mg	Coffee Beans	Bold, bitter, roasty
Herbal Tea	0 mg	Herbs, Flowers, Fruits	Varies widely (e.g., floral, minty, fruity)

As the table above shows, pink tea falls on the low end of the caffeine spectrum when compared to coffee or even other black tea-based chai drinks. This makes it an ideal option for those who are sensitive to caffeine or are looking for a gentle, relaxing drink. The presence of L-theanine in the green tea leaves also contributes to a more calm and focused energy boost, rather than the jitteriness often associated with high-caffeine beverages.

The Verdict: Low Caffeine, Not Zero

It is important to differentiate between authentic, traditional Kashmiri pink tea and modern, often artificial, versions. Some instant mixes or cafe-style drinks might either use non-traditional teas or be labeled as caffeine-free, but the classic recipe uses green tea and therefore contains caffeine. Always check the ingredients if you are concerned about caffeine. A truly caffeine-free pink drink would be an herbal infusion, such as hibiscus, that is blended with milk and coloring to achieve a similar hue but lacks any actual tea leaves.

Conclusion

In summary, is there any caffeine in pink tea? Yes, authentic pink tea (Kashmiri chai) does contain a modest amount of caffeine because it is brewed with green tea leaves. However, its caffeine content is significantly lower than that of coffee and most black teas, making it a great alternative for those seeking a less intense stimulant. The unique, slow-brewed preparation and creamy texture, along with the natural L-theanine from the green tea, provide a soothing and gentle boost rather than a jolt. So, you can enjoy this culturally significant, beautiful pink brew with the confidence that it offers a mild caffeine experience.

How to get the most accurate caffeine information

If you need precise caffeine content for a specific brand of pink tea, it is best to check the product packaging or the manufacturer's website. Instant mixes and pre-packaged versions should always disclose their ingredients and nutritional information. For homemade versions, remember that the type of green tea leaves and the brewing time will influence the final caffeine level. For an excellent guide on the different types of tea and their caffeine levels, check out The Republic of Tea's library.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, authentic pink tea, or Kashmiri chai, is not completely caffeine-free. It contains a modest amount of caffeine because it is brewed with green tea leaves.

Pink tea has significantly less caffeine than a cup of coffee. While a cup of coffee can have 95-165 mg of caffeine, a serving of pink tea typically contains 15-30 mg.

The caffeine in pink tea comes from the green tea leaves used as the base for the drink. These leaves, from the Camellia sinensis plant, naturally contain caffeine.

Yes, you can make a caffeine-free pink beverage by using an herbal tea base, like hibiscus, rather than green tea leaves. This would be an herbal infusion, not traditional pink tea.

Because of its low caffeine content and the presence of L-theanine, pink tea is less likely to disrupt your sleep than a high-caffeine beverage like black tea or coffee.

This can be a misconception, possibly confusing traditional pink tea with herbal infusions or modern, low-caffeine adaptations. Always check the ingredients for the most accurate information.

Yes, while the long simmer and aeration process of making the tea concentrate can affect the final concentration, the caffeine level is ultimately determined by the amount and type of green tea leaves used.