Acidic Difference Between Tea & Coffee

Which has more acid: tea or coffee?

Highly acidic beverages can contribute to digestive difficulties, such as heartburn and acid reflux. So which is more acidic, coffee or tea?

What Is Acidity?

Acid refers to a sour, corrosive chemical

Acids are sour and corrosive. They become more neutral when mixed with a base (alkaline). The pH scale describes chemicals ranging from extremely acidic (0), neutral (7.0), and extremely alkaline (14.0).

Coffee's Acidity

Coffee's pH averages about 5.0

Coffee beans grown in very high altitudes and mineral-rich soil often produce more acidity. The acid content also depends on the type and length of bean roasting and brewing method. Coffee's pH averages about 5.0,

Tea's Acidity

Tea's acidity ranges from 4.0 to 6.0

Tea contains tannic acid, which becomes bitterer as the tea is steeped. Depending on the type, tea has a pH ranging from 4.0 to 6.0. Ginger tea and green tea are lowest in acidity.

Where to Find Low-Acid Products

Many coffee manufacturers, like Puroast and Hevla, offer low acid coffee. Yunnan tea has a low acid level, as do ginger and green teas. All these products are available at grocery stores and online.

How to Make Low Acid Coffee

Brew coffee with cold water for less acid

Add cold water to ground coffee and let it sit for at least 12 hours. Then use the concentrate to make less acidic coffee.

How to Make Low Acid Tea

Avoid citrus-based teas

Select caffeine-free or low-caffeine tea. Brew only for a few minutes.

References

• Coffee Chemistry: Coffee Acidity: CoffeeResearch.org
• Restoring pH Balance in the Body: NaturalHealthSchool.com
• pH Scale: Elmhurst College

Resources

• Cold Brewed Coffee on the Cheap: I Need Coffee