Is Bubble Tea Gluten Free?

lady sipping bubble tea

Is Bubble Tea Gluten-Free?

Yes, bubble tea is generally gluten-free. However, check toppings and milk alternatives for hidden gluten or cross-contamination.

If you are a bubble tea lover or newcomer with gluten sensitivities, navigating the diverse world of bubble tea ingredients can be a bit challenging. However, do not worry because at Taipec, we understand the importance of providing gluten-free bubble tea options to our customers. In this article, we explore gluten in bubble tea, gluten-free varieties, precautions for gluten-intolerant individuals and guide you on making your own gluten-free bubble tea at home. 

Understanding gluten in bubble tea ingredients

Gluten is a protein present in wheat, barley and rye and can be present in a variety of food and drink ingredients for example, wheat flour, malt and wheat-based thickeners or stabilisers. For products to be claimed “gluten-free”, only 20 parts per million (ppm) or less of gluten is allowed in that product. There is a rapid allergen test which is a lateral flow test used to test whether a substance has gluten in it. A kit will contain a swab, solution and test strip and the result will give a visual interpretation of a colour change or line. In a lab, it can be tested for using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR).

To answer the big question: all our bubble tea ingredients including tea, creamer, fructose, tapioca and toppings are gluten-free. However, it is possible gluten can sneak into bubble tea ingredients. To combat this, we prioritise offering gluten-free bubble tea products through rigorous testing, ensuring that our customers can indulge in their favourite beverage without the worry of gluten-related concerns. 

Gluten-free varieties of bubble tea

Although all our products are gluten-free, here are some suggestions for the availability of gluten-free bubble tea options in the market.

Original milk tea, which typically consists of tea, milk, and sugar, is generally gluten-free. However, it's essential to be cautious about certain additives or flavourings that may be used, as they could potentially contain gluten. Always check the ingredient list or inquire with the supplier to ensure that the specific product is gluten-free.

Flavoured milk teas, on the other hand, may vary. The flavourings and syrups added to enhance the taste can sometimes contain gluten. Common sources of gluten in flavoured milk teas include certain syrups, thickeners or additives. To enjoy a gluten-free flavoured milk tea, it's crucial to choose products that explicitly state they are gluten-free or to carefully read the ingredient list. At Taipec, you can be sure that all our bubble tea products are gluten-free.

Precautions for gluten-intolerant bubble tea lovers

Although all our bubble tea products are gluten-free, it is important to take precautions when ordering your bubble tea. Check for certification logos or labels on bubble tea products, indicating that they are gluten-free. 

Although cassava root, what tapioca balls are made of, naturally do not contain gluten, there is still a risk of cross contamination. They are ground in factories which may handle grains and wheat and some bubble tea recipes contain tapioca balls coated in wheat flour-based starch. 

Some shops use simple syrup or sugar to sweeten the drink, instead of fructose, which is something to be aware of when ordering your drink.

Overall, when ordering at a store, be sure to communicate your dietary restrictions to the staff to ensure they are aware of your needs.

Caution List: Ingredients That May Contain Gluten

When ordering or buying from other suppliers, watch out for these high-risk ingredients:

  • Oat milk (Often processed in facilities that handle wheat; not always certified gluten-free)

  • Flavoured syrups (Some use malt-based or wheat-derived stabilisers)

  • Powdered drink mixes (May include hidden gluten as thickeners or anti-caking agents)

  • Cocoa-based drinks (Some chocolate or mocha flavourings can include wheat starch)

  • Toppings like cookies or puddings (Usually not gluten-free unless stated)

  • Tapioca pearls with added starch coatings (Rare, but check packaging or ask)

Quick Tips: Ordering Gluten-Free Bubble Tea In-Store

Use this checklist to stay safe when ordering from a shop or café:

  • Ask your customers if they are gluten-intolerant

  • Check syrups and flavour powders

  • Use gluten-free prep tools (avoid shared blenders or shakers)

  • Confirm tapioca pearls aren’t coated with wheat-based starch.

  • Look for a gluten-free label or ask about our sources.

Summary

Bubble tea can be gluten-free, but it depends on the ingredients and how they’re prepared. At Taipec, we take the guesswork out by offering clearly labelled, tested gluten-free products, so you can enjoy bubble tea without compromise.