McDonald’s Large Sweet Tea Calories: What You Need to Know
A large McDonald’s sweet tea contains approximately 140 calories, primarily from sugar, making it a sweet beverage choice.
A large McDonald’s Sweet Tea contains 280 calories. This popular Southern-style beverage packs a sweet punch with its blend of orange pekoe and pekoe cut black tea. Let’s break down everything you need to know about this refreshing drink.
McDonald’s Sweet Tea Nutrition Facts
The large size (30 oz) McDonald’s Sweet Tea provides:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 72g |
| Sugars | 70g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
How This Compares to Other Sizes
McDonald’s offers Sweet Tea in four sizes:
- Extra Small (16 oz): 150 calories
- Small (21 oz): 200 calories
- Medium (30 oz): 230 calories
- Large (30 oz): 280 calories
What Makes McDonald’s Sweet Tea So Sweet?
The high calorie count comes primarily from added sugar. McDonald’s uses a special blend of:
- Orange pekoe black tea
- Pekoe cut black tea
- High fructose corn syrup
According to McDonald’s official nutrition information, the large sweet tea contains about 17.5 teaspoons of sugar – more than double the American Heart Association’s recommended daily limit of 6-9 teaspoons.
Healthier McDonald’s Drink Alternatives
If you’re watching your calorie intake, consider these lower-calorie options:
Unsweetened Iced Tea
McDonald’s Unsweet Tea contains 0 calories and 0g sugar. It’s made from the same tea blend without added sweeteners.
Other Low-Calorie Choices
- Diet Coke (0 calories)
- Black Coffee (5 calories)
- Bottled Water (0 calories)
For those looking for healthier beverage options at home, consider making your own tea with a quality brewing system or fresh juices from a cold press juicer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McDonald’s Sweet Tea Contain Caffeine?
Yes, the black tea blend contains caffeine – about 40mg in a large serving, similar to a can of Coke.
Can I Get Half-Sweet Tea?
Some locations may accommodate requests for half-sweet/half-unsweet tea, which would cut the calories in half.
Is There a Sugar-Free Version?
McDonald’s doesn’t currently offer an artificially sweetened tea option, but you can request unsweet tea and add your own sugar-free sweetener.
The Bottom Line
While McDonald’s Sweet Tea is a refreshing treat, its high sugar content makes it more of an occasional indulgence than an everyday beverage choice. Being aware of the 280 calories in a large can help you make informed decisions about your drink selections.
