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Black tea caffeine
Black tea contains 47 mg of caffeine per 240 ml mug (USDA FoodData Central: tea, black, brewed). How it compares with the EFSA daily guidance, and where the figure comes from.
Steeped 3-5 minutes.
Caffeine affects people differently — body weight, habits, medication and pregnancy all change the picture. If you are pregnant, EFSA's figure is up to 200 mg a day. Heart-rhythm conditions and anxiety disorders are reasons to talk to a clinician, not to a table.
Where the figure comes from
USDA FoodData Central: tea, black, brewed
Against the daily guidance
| Reference | Limit | This drink |
|---|---|---|
| EFSA daily reference, healthy adults | 400 mg | under the line |
| EFSA single-dose reference | 200 mg | under the line |
| EFSA daily reference in pregnancy | 200 mg | under the line |
Sources: USDA FoodData Central · EFSA 2015 — scientific opinion on the safety of caffeine · checked 2026-09-03
Frequently asked questions
How much caffeine is in black tea?
47 mg per 240 ml mug, per USDA FoodData Central: tea, black, brewed.
Is black tea a lot of caffeine?
Not against the EFSA reference points: up to 400 mg a day and up to 200 mg per sitting is considered safe for healthy adults.
Does black tea vary between batches?
Yes — every caffeinated drink varies with ingredients and preparation. This figure is a published reference point, not a measurement of your cup.
Brewed (filter) coffee
95 mg per 240 ml mug
Espresso
63 mg per 30 ml shot
Instant coffee
62 mg per 240 ml mug
Decaffeinated coffee
2 mg per 240 ml mug
Cold brew
100-200 mg per 240 ml
Green tea
28 mg per 240 ml mug
Count the coffees, keep the sleep
TempoLife tracks caffeine, meals and sleep in one place — so you can see which cup is the one that keeps you up.