Consumer Reports has discovered potentially concerning traces of lead in some popular bubble tea products sold in the U.S., raising questions about how often consumers should indulge in the trendy drink.
The study examined tapioca pearls and tea from four brands — Gong Cha, Kung Fu Tea, Trader Joe’s, and WuFuYuan — to check for heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. Researchers found no unsafe levels of arsenic, cadmium, or mercury, but lead was detected in all samples, both in the drink and in the pearls.
According to Dr. James E. Rogers, Consumer Reports’ director of food safety research and testing, “This is a good reason to treat it as an occasional treat, not an everyday staple.” He added that three out of the four samples contained more than half the lead level considered concerning for a single serving.
The test showed lead concern levels ranging from 29% in WuFuYuan’s tapioca pearls to as high as 83% in Trader Joe’s Instant Boba Kit. While these amounts did not exceed official limits, Consumer Reports warned that even small, repeated exposures can be harmful over time. “Small amounts add up and, in the long run, may have health effects,” Rogers said.
Lead exposure is particularly dangerous for pregnant women and children, as it can harm the developing brain and nervous system. Tom Neltner, national director of Unleaded Kids, noted that adult lead exposure has been linked to around 256,000 cardiovascular deaths each year.
In response, Trader Joe’s confirmed that it has discontinued its Instant Boba Kit. WuFuYuan’s parent company, Shanghai ZhouShi Foodstuffs, said it has tightened its quality control measures. Gong Cha, meanwhile, assured customers that it works with “suppliers who undergo rigorous independent testing,” adding that its ingredients consistently meet FDA safety guidance.
