Is Bubble Tea Safe For Kids?

Vibrant Fruity Bubble Tea - Is bubble tea safe for kids?

2022 Saw bubble tea rise as a global sensation, particularly among the young crowd. As its popularity soars, many parents are left asking: is bubble tea safe for kids?

Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, originates from Taiwan and combines milky or fruity tea with chewy tapioca pearls, offering a unique taste sensation. The drink has evolved with popping boba and diverse fruity variations, capturing the imagination of younger generations and earning rave reviews on social media. Its widespread appeal, especially among kids, accentuates the importance of understanding its safety for young consumers.

Is bubble tea safe for kids?

While bubble tea offers a delightful flavour journey, moderation is key. It is a tasty treat that should be enjoyed for its unique flavour combinations and taste experience. Too much of a good thing and all that!

Boba for teenagers

The Instagram-friendly nature of bubble tea, paired with its wide range of fruity flavours, has made it a clear favourite among the younger generation. Older kids and adolescents are able to make their own decisions about healthy eating and should be encouraged to do so as part of growing up. A cup of boba tea as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle will do no long-term harm.

You may have come across internet horror stories about bubble tea. But enjoying bubble tea in moderation and as a tasty treat is absolutely fine for older kids!

Younger kids

For the younger children, decisions often rest with the parents. It's vital to note that standard bubble tea servings (500ml or 700ml) are generous. The drinks can sometimes be laden with sugars and even caffeine, which might not be suitable for young kids. Like all sugary indulgences, it's prudent for parents to monitor and limit their young ones' bubble tea consumption.

Caffeine & Sugar Content in Bubble Tea

Not all bubble teas contain caffeine, but it’s good to be aware of the typical figures. A black tea-based boba can contain around 40–50mg of caffeine per 500ml cup. This is roughly half the amount of a standard cup of tea. Green tea has slightly less, at around 30mg. Fruit teas, on the other hand, are usually caffeine-free, making them more suitable for kids.

The sugar content can vary depending on your sweetness level and add-ins. For example, fructose syrup can add about 100–150 calories per drink. A full-sugar milk tea with toppings might contain 30–40g of sugar. This is more than the NHS’s recommended daily limit for children aged 7 to 10 (24g of free sugars per day). That’s why it’s important to enjoy boba as an occasional treat, not an everyday habit.

NHS guidance recommends limiting sugary drinks in children's diets, so being aware of the sugar and caffeine in bubble tea helps parents make informed choices.

Tips for Healthier Kids' Bubble Tea

If your child loves bubble tea (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), here are some ways to enjoy it in a more balanced way:

  • Ask for reduced sugar. Many shops offer 50%, 30% or even 0% sugar options.

  • Choose smaller cup sizes. Go for a 500ml instead of a 700ml.

  • Skip the milk. Opt for fruit teas that are lighter and often caffeine-free.

  • Go easy on toppings. Stick to lower-calorie choices like aloe vera, grass jelly, or even no toppings at all.

  • Avoid double toppings. One is enough for a sweet treat.

  • Check for non-caffeinated options.

What About Choking Hazards?

While less of a problem with popping boba, the choking hazard posed by tapioca pearls should not be ignored. These small pearls should be chewed before swallowing, and if you are sharing bubble tea with someone new to the drink or a young child, you should be sure to remind them to chew before they swallow!

To wrap things up, bubble tea is a tasty drink that kids can enjoy. Just remember to watch the amount they drink and remind them to chew the little pearls properly. If you've got more questions or want to know more about bubble tea, get in touch with us. They're here to help!

A Final Word for Parents

To wrap things up, bubble tea is a tasty drink that kids can enjoy. Just remember to watch the amount they drink, choose lower-sugar options when possible, and remind them to chew the little pearls properly.

If you’re unsure, fruit tea with no toppings or a bit of aloe vera is a great, kid-friendly starting point. If you've got more questions or want to know more about bubble tea, get in touch with us. We’re always happy to help, especially when it comes to making bubble tea safer and more enjoyable for everyone.