Kombucha is a fermented drink prepared from a green tea or black tea infusion. Does that mean it contains caffeine? Yes, but in small amounts: approximately one third of that in the original tea. We explain why, how much it contains, and how it compares to other common drinks.
What is caffeine and theine
Caffeine is an antioxidant compound that acts as a psychoactive drug, stimulating the central nervous system. It was discovered in 1819 as a component of coffee. Theine is exactly the same molecule: only the name changes when it is found in tea from the Camellia sinensis plant.
Caffeine is naturally present in plants such as coffee, tea, guayusa, guarana, and yerba mate. In humans, it acts as a temporary stimulant of alertness and reduces drowsiness. It is the most consumed psychoactive substance in the world.
It has diuretic properties. Excessive consumption can cause insomnia, nervousness, excitement, facial flushing, or gastrointestinal problems. Being a vasoconstrictor, it can relieve headaches, although it is contraindicated in cases of high blood pressure.
How much caffeine each drink contains
Indicative summary of the caffeine content of the most common drinks:
| Drink | Caffeine (mg/100 ml) |
|---|---|
| Espresso coffee | 212 |
| Americano coffee | 45 |
| Black tea infusion | 25 – 100 |
| Yerba mate infusion | 68 |
| Green tea infusion | 8 – 16 |
| White tea infusion | 1 |
| Rooibos infusion | 0 |
How much caffeine does kombucha contain
The amount of theine that kombucha contains depends on the type of tea used (green or black), the infusion time, and the quantity used. In general, a fermented kombucha contains approximately one third of the caffeine that the base tea had.
In a preliminary study carried out by Mūn Ferments, we have verified that during fermentation, the theine concentration can decrease by up to 20% compared to the starting tea.
Caffeine in Mūn Kombucha varieties
The Cola Realfooding variety, which starts from our traditional kombucha with green tea and is boosted with black tea and yerba mate, reaches up to 5.5 mg/100 ml.
The rest of the Mūn Kombucha varieties are below 3 mg/100 ml, which is practically a theine-free kombucha. Only people hypersensitive to caffeine might notice some effect.
To put the figures in context: a 250 ml bottle of Mūn Kombucha provides about 7-13 mg of theine, far from the more than 500 mg of an espresso coffee, the 100-250 mg of a freshly brewed tea, or the 80 mg of a standard can of cola.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does kombucha contain caffeine?
Yes, but in very low amounts. A fermented kombucha contains approximately one third of the caffeine that the base tea had. Fermentation reduces the initial theine concentration by up to 20%.
How much caffeine does a 250 ml bottle of Mūn Kombucha contain?
Between 7 and 13 mg, depending on the variety. The Cola Realfooding, which incorporates black tea and yerba mate, reaches up to about 14 mg per 250 ml. The rest of the varieties are below 8 mg per bottle.
Is caffeine the same as theine?
Yes, it is exactly the same molecule. Only the name changes depending on the plant of origin: caffeine when it comes from coffee, theine when it comes from tea. Their effects on the body are identical.
Can I drink kombucha if I am sensitive to caffeine?
Probably yes. Most Mūn Kombucha varieties contain less than 3 mg/100 ml, practically nothing. Only people hypersensitive to caffeine might notice some effect.
Does kombucha cause sleeplessness?
It is very unlikely due to its low theine content. A bottle provides less caffeine than half a cup of green tea. Even so, avoid drinking it just before bed if you are sensitive.
Is kombucha good in the morning?
Yes, it is a common option as an alternative to coffee. It provides a small boost from theine and probiotics, without the stimulating intensity of an espresso.
Can children and pregnant women drink kombucha?
Not because of the caffeine —which is very low—, but due to other factors: residual alcohol, acidity, and its unpasteurised nature. Consult our guide to contraindications.
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A kombucha with low theine and great flavour
Mūn Kombucha: below 3 mg of theine per 100 ml, unpasteurised, long fermentation since 2015.
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