Is there protein in tea?

November 27, 2025 •

3 min read

Did you know that a typical cup of plain brewed tea contains a negligible amount, if any, of protein? The question, 'Is there protein in tea?' is often asked by those monitoring their macronutrient intake, and the answer is rooted in how tea is prepared, where the protein from the leaves is not readily extracted into the water.

Quick Summary

Plain black, green, and herbal teas contain almost no protein, as the brewing process does not release significant amounts from the leaves. Measurable protein content is primarily due to milk or other added ingredients.

Key Points

Negligible Protein Content: Plain brewed teas, including black, green, and herbal varieties, contain virtually zero protein.
Protein from Additives: Any protein in a cup of tea is contributed by additions such as milk, soy milk, or protein powders.
Poor Extraction: The brewing process does not efficiently extract the protein that exists in the dry tea leaves into the water.
Rich in Antioxidants: Tea's true health benefits are linked to its high content of antioxidants, like catechins and polyphenols, which combat free radicals.
Not a Protein Source: Tea should not be depended on to meet your daily protein requirements; rely on food sources instead.
L-Theanine Presence: Tea does contain amino acids like L-theanine, which offers focus and relaxation, but this is not the same as dietary protein.

The Simple Answer: Plain Tea Contains Negligible Protein

For a cup of plain tea, whether it's black, green, or white, the protein content is virtually zero. This might come as a surprise to some, especially since tea leaves themselves, in their dry state, contain a measurable percentage of protein. However, the crucial factor is the brewing process. Proteins found in plant matter are generally not water-soluble in significant quantities, so they remain in the tea leaves or residue and are not infused into your cup.

The Role of Additives in Protein Content

When you see a nutritional profile that lists protein for a cup of tea, it's almost certainly referring to a beverage with added ingredients. The most common addition is milk, which is a protein source. The amount of protein in a milk tea, or chai, is directly dependent on the amount and type of milk used. Adding soy milk, almond milk, or protein powders are other ways people intentionally increase the protein count of their tea. For example, a single cup of Indian milk tea can contain 1 to 3 grams of protein, a direct contribution from the milk.

Different Teas, Similar Protein Profile

Regardless of the type of tea derived from the Camellia sinensis plant—green, black, oolong, or white—the brewed liquid will contain insignificant amounts of protein. The differences in processing (fermentation) affect the antioxidant and polyphenol content, not the protein transfer into the infusion. Herbal teas, which are not from the Camellia sinensis plant, are also typically protein-free.

Beyond Protein: Tea's True Nutritional Value

While not a protein source, tea is rich in other beneficial compounds that contribute to its celebrated health properties. These are what you should focus on when considering tea for its nutritional benefits.

Here are the primary beneficial compounds found in tea:

Antioxidants: Polyphenols and flavonoids, such as catechins, help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
L-theanine: This amino acid, found in tea leaves, promotes relaxation and focus, contributing to the drink's calming effects.
Trace Minerals: Tea contains small amounts of essential minerals like potassium and manganese, which support various bodily functions.
Caffeine: A natural stimulant, caffeine in tea can enhance alertness without the intense jitters often associated with coffee due to the presence of L-theanine.

Comparison Table: Protein in Plain vs. Milk Tea

This table illustrates the stark difference in protein content between plain brewed tea and tea with milk.


Beverage	Approximate Protein per Cup (240ml)	Primary Protein Source
Plain Black Tea	0 to 0.2 grams	Negligible (trace amounts from leaves)
Plain Green Tea	0 to 0.1 grams	Negligible (trace amounts from leaves)
Plain Herbal Tea	0 grams	None
Milk Tea (Cow's Milk)	1 to 2 grams	Milk
Milk Tea (Buffalo Milk)	2 to 3 grams	Buffalo Milk

Conclusion: A Source of Antioxidants, Not Protein

In conclusion, the answer to the question "Is there protein in tea?" is effectively no, when considering plain brewed tea. Any significant protein content in a cup of tea is derived from added milk or other protein-rich ingredients, not the tea leaves themselves. Tea's reputation as a healthy beverage comes from its abundance of antioxidants and other beneficial plant compounds, not its macronutrient profile. It is a hydrating, flavorful drink, but it should not be relied upon as a source of dietary protein. For more detailed information on green tea's extensive health benefits beyond protein, you can consult research documented on the National Institutes of Health website.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, a cup of plain brewed green tea contains negligible amounts of protein. The protein in the leaves does not dissolve into the water during brewing.

The protein content in milk tea comes from the milk that is added, not from the tea leaves themselves.

No, you should not rely on tea as a protein source. For dietary protein, focus on foods like meat, dairy, eggs, legumes, and nuts.

Tea's primary health benefits come from its high concentration of antioxidants (like catechins and polyphenols) and compounds such as L-theanine.

No, herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint are infusions of herbs and typically contain zero protein.

The amount depends on the type and quantity of milk. A cup of chai made with cow's milk can have 1 to 2 grams, while one with full-fat buffalo milk might have 2 to 3 grams.

Yes, dry tea leaves do contain protein (e.g., green tea leaves are 15-20% protein by dry weight), but this does not significantly transfer to the brewed beverage.