Yes, Trader Joe’s Sparkling Black Tea does contain caffeine, as it is made from black tea, which naturally has caffeine; the exact amount varies by serving size but typically ranges around 30-50 mg per 12 oz can.
Trader Joe’s Sparkling Black Tea with Peach Juice Beverage contains approximately 30mg of caffeine per 8.5oz can. This caffeine comes naturally from the black tea leaves used in the beverage. While the exact amount isn’t listed on the packaging, this falls within the typical range for black tea-based drinks.
Caffeine Content and Source
The caffeine in Trader Joe’s Sparkling Black Tea comes from organic black tea leaves. Black tea naturally contains caffeine, though typically less than coffee. The sparkling tea contains:
- Approximately 30mg caffeine per 8.5oz can
- Natural caffeine from Camellia sinensis tea leaves
- No added caffeine or artificial stimulants
This moderate caffeine content makes it a good middle-ground between highly caffeinated drinks and completely caffeine-free options.
Why Caffeine Isn’t Listed on Packaging
Many consumers notice the caffeine content isn’t specified on the can. This is because:
- FDA regulations don’t require caffeine disclosure unless it’s added separately
- Natural caffeine content can vary slightly between batches
- Trader Joe’s focuses more on highlighting the absence of artificial sweeteners
Nutritional Profile
Beyond caffeine, here’s what you’re getting in each can:
| Nutrient | Amount per 8.5oz |
|---|---|
| Calories | 35 |
| Sugar | 8g (from peach juice) |
| Sodium | 10mg |
| Carbohydrates | 9g |
Key Ingredients
The drink contains simple, recognizable ingredients:
- Brewed black tea
- Peach juice concentrate
- Carbonated water
- Citric acid
- Natural flavors
Unlike some other tea beverages, it contains no artificial sweeteners or preservatives.
Taste and Consumer Experience
Reviews of this sparkling tea are generally positive, with some nuances:
Flavor Profile
Most consumers describe it as:
- Lightly sweet with subtle peach notes
- More sparkling water-forward than tea-forward
- Refreshing but could use stronger tea flavor
As one reviewer noted on Mantou Joe’s blog, “The first couple sips does have a peach flavor…but after a while you don’t really taste the peach.”
Packaging and Value
The product comes in four 8.5oz cans per box, retailing around $3.99. The sleek packaging with peach-copper accents gives it an upscale appearance, though some find the can size quite small.
How It Compares to Other Tea Options
When considering caffeine content:
- Contains more caffeine than Trader Joe’s Pomegranate White Tea (which has about 15mg)
- Less caffeine than a typical coffee (95mg per 8oz)
- Similar to other black tea-based sparkling drinks
The beverage offers a lighter alternative to traditional sweet teas while providing a modest caffeine boost. It’s particularly popular among those looking for a refreshing, low-calorie option with some natural energy support.
