Is coffee more acidic than tea?

This is a bit of a tricky question, as both coffee and tea can have varying levels of acidity depending on the type, brewing method, and other factors.

Here's the breakdown:

* pH: pH measures acidity, with a lower number indicating higher acidity. Generally, coffee has a lower pH (more acidic) than tea, ranging from 4.5 to 5.5, compared to tea's 5.5 to 6.5.

* Acidity perception: However, acidity perception is not always the same as pH. Some teas, like black tea, can be perceived as more acidic due to the presence of tannins, which can make the mouth feel dry and puckering.

* Factors influencing acidity:

* Roast level: Darker roasts of coffee are generally less acidic than lighter roasts.

* Brewing method: Stronger brews tend to be more acidic.

* Type of tea: Black tea is generally more acidic than green or white tea.

* Water quality: Hard water can increase perceived acidity.

In conclusion: While coffee generally has a lower pH than tea, the perception of acidity can be subjective and influenced by various factors. It's best to consider the specific type of coffee and tea you're comparing and how they're prepared.