Tag: Tapioca balls

While dry tapioca starch contains virtually no sugar, the final, chewy tapioca balls used in bubble tea are almost always prepared with significant amounts of added sugar. This added sweetness comes from brown sugar or honey used during the cooking process and from the sugar syrup in which they are soaked after boiling.

Health experts and bubble tea aficionados agree: you are supposed to chew tapioca balls to avoid choking, help digestion, and fully appreciate the drink's signature texture and sweetness. Swallowing them whole is not only unsafe but also means you're missing out on a key part of the experience.

According to Monash University, the primary ingredient in tapioca balls, tapioca starch, is low FODMAP at a typical serving size. This makes the core of the beloved bubble tea topping a safe choice for many, though it's crucial to consider additional ingredients and preparation methods.