Brits Still Love Their Black Tea — But Most Aren’t Brewing It Long Enough
Tsara Tea – Britain has a global reputation for tea drinking, and the latest UK Tea and Infusions Association (UKTIA) Tea Census Study confirms that the tradition is alive and well. But while black tea still reigns supreme in British households, the survey also revealed a surprising truth — most Brits are cutting their brew time short, and in doing so, missing out on the perfect cuppa.
Black Tea Still Leads the Way
The 2025 Tea Census polled over 1,000 UK residents and found that:
- 71% of Brits prefer traditional black tea (with or without milk)
- 16% opt for herbal infusions
- 13% choose green tea as their main brew
Age plays a big role in preference. A whopping 86% of those aged 65+ primarily drink black tea, compared to 63% of 18–24-year-olds, who are more open to experimenting with herbal or green teas.
The Tea Bag Dominates
Despite growing interest in loose-leaf tea among younger drinkers, 93% of Brits still choose the convenience of tea bags over loose-leaf infusions. This mirrors global tea consumption patterns, where ease and speed often outweigh tradition.
The Brewing Time Problem
The most striking finding? 73% of respondents brew their black tea for less than the recommended 3–4 minutes.
- Most let it steep for only 1–2 minutes
- 18% brew for under a minute
- Just 7% brew for the full 3–4 minutes recommended for optimal flavor and health benefits
According to UKTIA, brewing for at least three minutes allows tea to release its full profile of polyphenols — plant compounds linked to antioxidant activity and potential health benefits. A rushed brew can mean a weaker flavor, fewer nutrients, and a less satisfying experience.
You can read more about tea’s health benefits from the UK Tea and Infusions Association here.
How to Make the Perfect Cuppa
Dr. Sharon Hall, Chief Executive of UKTIA, offers these top tips for a proper brew:
- Use quality tea – Choose a fresh, high-quality tea bag or loose-leaf tea and store it in a cool, dry place.
- Start with fresh water – Avoid reboiling water, which can make tea taste flat.
- Measure properly – One tea bag or one rounded teaspoon of loose tea per cup.
- Brew for 3–4 minutes – Longer for smoky teas like Lapsang Souchong; adjust for green or oolong teas.
- Add milk last – Especially when brewing directly in the cup.
For more detailed brewing guidance, check the UKTIA brewing guide.
Why Brewing Matters
Brewing isn’t just about taste — it’s also about maximizing tea’s nutritional potential. Polyphenols, theaflavins, and flavan-3-ols are released during steeping, contributing to tea’s flavor complexity and its potential to support heart and brain health.
A slower, more mindful tea-making process can also serve as a daily ritual for relaxation. As Dr. Hall points out, “Taking the time to brew tea properly is a small act of self-care.”
Black tea may still be the UK’s number one choice, but the way it’s brewed matters. Whether you prefer strong builder’s tea or a delicate Earl Grey, giving your tea a few extra minutes in the pot could be the simplest way to upgrade your daily cup.
