"Milk First or Last in Tea? Experts Settle Debate With Perfect Brew Method"
Milk First or Last? Experts Settle the Great Tea Debate
By Melody Fletcher for MailOnline
Published: 11:05 BST, 4 July 2025 | Updated: 11:21 BST, 4 July 2025
The age-old question dividing British tea lovers—milk before or after boiling water?—has finally been answered. According to a survey of 2,000 UK tea drinkers, 78% insist milk should be added last, cementing the milk-after-water method as the nation’s favorite.
Should milk go in first or last? The debate is settled—most Brits say after!
Etiquette expert Jo Bryant agrees: “A cup of English Breakfast tea, freshly brewed for two minutes, with a moderate amount of milk—always tea first, milk last.”
The Aldi-commissioned survey reveals Brits drink 127 million cups of tea daily, with 72% enjoying four cups a day. While 55% prefer tea to coffee, a stubborn 22% still add milk first, defying the majority’s preference.
The “Perfect Cuppa” Formula:
- Brew English Breakfast tea (67% favorite) in boiling water for two minutes.
- Add splash of semi-skimmed milk (49%) to cool the drink to the ideal 57°C.
Earlier this year, U.S. chemist Professor Michelle Francl stirred controversy by recommending a pinch of salt to counteract bitterness. Her research-backed recipe also advises:
- Warm the milk to prevent curdling.
- Steep tea bags briskly and squeeze to minimize tannins.
- Pre-heat cups for better aroma.
- Add lemon juice to dissolve surface “scum.”
Professor Francl’s controversial tip: a pinch of salt enhances flavor.
Bonus: How to Eat a Chocolate Digestive
- Take biscuit at room temperature, chocolate-side up.
- Flip before biting to let chocolate hit your tongue first.
- Savor the crunch slowly for maximum taste.
Whether you’re Team Milk-First or follow the crowd, one thing’s clear: Brits take their tea seriously!
Share your thoughts: Do you agree with the milk-last rule?
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