Is there food coloring in boba?

Recap: Cafe owners boil boba balls, simmer them in different flavorings, and sometimes add food colorings which creates tasty, aesthetically pleasing boba tea.

People are becoming more curious about what goes into their favorite boba tea drinks. We've been these question A LOT: Is there food coloring in boba? Why are tapioca pearls in bubble tea black? We were curious too so we did a little investigation and have answers for you!

Food Coloring in Boba

Food coloring in boba is very common. A lot of shops will use it to color their tapioca black or to give it other unique colors. We’ll break down all the relevant information below:

Typical Ingredients in Boba Pearls

Boba pearls are primarily made from tapioca starch, water, and sometimes a sweetener like brown sugar. Food coloring is not a required ingredient in boba pearls, but is very common.

Why is Tapioca Black?

Using brown sugar to sweeten boba balls naturally gives them a dark brown color. A lot of boba shops add food coloring to make the boba balls black. Ultimately, this is done for the aesthetic. Black tapioca balls contrast very nicely with the light brown color of milk tea.

What Gives Tapioca Other Colors?

Some boba tea shops offer colored boba pearls made using syrups, fresh fruit, or food coloring. It's best to check the ingredient list or ask the boba tea shop about their specific preparation methods. The possibilities of colors and boba flavors are truly endless! So much so that we wrote a whole article about how it's made!

Other Frequently Asked Boba Questions

Is boba healthy?

Boba pearls are starchy and often sweetened, so they can be high in calories and carbohydrates. While enjoying boba tea in moderation is perfectly fine, it's best to be mindful of portion sizes and added sugars. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider choosing boba tea with less sugar or opting for fresh fruit toppings.

Can it be prepared at home?

Yes!! Making boba at home is a fun and creative way to enjoy your favorite boba tea flavors. You can purchase ready-made boba pearls from specialty stores or online, and then cook them according to the package instructions. If you're a beginner looking for an easy way to make boba tea at home, consider using the Pearly DIY Boba Tea Kit, which provides everything you need for a delightful boba tea experience.

Allergens and sensitivities to be aware of

Tapioca starch, the main ingredient in boba, is derived from the cassava root and is typically gluten-free. However, individuals with dietary restrictions or sensitivities should be cautious and check the ingredient list for any potential allergens. If you can’t eat tapioca, consider looking for alternative toppings, such as coconut jelly, grass jelly, pudding and more 🤤

Want to make your own boba?

Ready to take your boba tea experience to the next level? We're excited to introduce Pearly, a DIY boba tea kit that lets you create your own delicious boba tea right at home. With Pearly, you can customize your drink to your liking, whether you prefer classic milk tea or fruity flavors. Plus, Pearly provides full transparency with ingredients and nutrition facts clearly shared on their website, giving you peace of mind.

Pearly makes it easy to enjoy a fun and satisfying boba tea experience with friends and family. To learn more and get your own Pearly DIY boba tea kit, visit Pearly DIY Boba Tea Kit.