Boba Bliss: Navigating the Kosher Landscape of Tapioca Boba Pearls

Boba tea, with its delightful combination of tea, milk, and tapioca pearls, has become a global sensation. For those who observe kosher dietary laws, the question arises: Is boba kosher? Let’s explore the kosher status of boba, specifically focusing on the key component that gives this beloved beverage its unique texture—tapioca pearls.

Understanding Tapioca Pearls

Tapioca pearls, the tiny, chewy spheres that make boba so distinct, are derived from the starch extracted froAm the root of the cassava plant. The tapioca itself is generally considered kosher. Being a plant-based product, it doesn’t involve the issues related to meat or dairy, making it a versatile and neutral ingredient in the kosher culinary world.

Kosher Considerations Beyond Tapioca

While tapioca pearls are inherently kosher, the overall kosher status of boba depends on the other ingredients used in its preparation. Boba beverages often involve a combination of tea, milk or non-dairy alternatives, sweeteners, flavorings, and other additives. It’s essential to review each component for its kosher status.

Is Tea Kosher?

Typically made from tea leaves, the base of boba tea is inherently kosher. However, flavored teas or blends may include additives or flavorings that need kosher certification. Ensure that any flavored tea used in boba is certified kosher to maintain the integrity of the beverage.

Milk or Non-Dairy Alternatives

The choice of milk or non-dairy alternatives introduces another layer of consideration. Regular milk from kosher animals is kosher, but if non-dairy milk substitutes are used, it’s crucial to check for kosher certification. Some non-dairy options may contain additives or processing agents that require verification.

Sweeteners, Flavorings & Additives

Various sweeteners, such as sugar, honey, or syrups, contribute to the sweetness of boba beverages. While sugar is generally considered kosher, it’s advisable to check for additional ingredients, especially in flavored syrups, to ensure they meet kosher standards.

Flavorings and additives can be a potential source of concern. Some artificial or natural flavorings may be derived from non-kosher sources or processed on equipment shared with non-kosher products. Seeking products with kosher certification ensures that these additives comply with kosher dietary laws.

Certifications and Assurance

To provide consumers with confidence in the kosher status of their products, manufacturers often seek certification from reputable kosher certification agencies. These organizations rigorously evaluate production processes and ingredient sourcing to ensure adherence to kosher standards. Look for well-known kosher symbols or certifications on the packaging to verify that the boba product aligns with your dietary preferences.

In the world of boba, tapioca pearls themselves are generally considered kosher. However, achieving a fully certified beverage involves careful consideration of all ingredients in the recipe. By choosing products with recognized kosher certifications, consumers can enjoy the delightful experience of sipping on bubble tea while maintaining their commitment to kosher dietary practices.  At Better Boba we are committed to being 100% Oregon Kosher Certified. You can rest assured that our Brown Sugar Boba Pearls are guaranteed to be Kosher.

A Statement from Better Boba

Better Boba loves boba.  Our mission is to provide the world with an all-natural option that is good for you and the world we live in.  Please see below for our statement on the recent concerns regarding our branding.

We are listening to your comments.

Concerns have been voiced about the branding and mission of Better Boba.

We hear that some have been offended by our branding message, and for that we are truly sorry.

These conversations have created opportunities for even more engagement and understanding, as a first step.

In the context of our name, “better” references our quest for a more natural boba that began as parents and shop owners – to offer simple, healthier ingredients compared to most pearls sourced for food service and retail operations in North America. This started a journey across the globe to understand boba production.

Most packaged pearls in the states do not mirror the natural, artisanal boba available in Taiwan. Our research found that as global demand increases, simple ingredients in the tapioca pearls are being replaced with preservatives and additives, limiting our ability to source quality packaged products at retail shops.

We believed our messaging was consistent in reflecting better ingredients and accessibility, not to insult a culture, origin, or identity. We never intended for the word “Better” to mean our product was better than the original, nor claim or insinuate our interpretation of boba is the best in the market.

We love boba.

We launched this company so more consumers in North America can enjoy all-natural pearls where packaged retail options are limited. Our goal was always centered around sharing the origin story, not suppressing it, and we recognize that we are just one version of a beloved tradition.

Moving forward, we will continue to listen and engage in thoughtful dialogue around our messaging and products. We remain committed to our mission of celebrating boba and its origins and know that these discussions will allow us to better support the communities we represent and champion.

Parth, Allison, and the Better Boba Team

Looking for Portland’s best boba? If you’re a boba enthusiast in Portland, Oregon, you’re in for a treat. Cup & Cone invites you to enjoy a boba and ice cream experience like no other in the Pacific Northwest. Portland’s boba…just got better.

The C&C ethos is “Inspired globally, served locally.”  Serve goodness, spread kindness. The Cup & Cone way.

Cup & Cones World Class Menu

Cup & Cone is located in Bethany Village, nine miles west of downtown Portland. The Bethany community was created with a blueprint of generational diversity. The area was planned to accommodate and support multi-generational families. No matter the age, ice cream makes people happy and this was the ideal neighborhood to launch a globally inspired ice cream shop. Which is why, at Cup & Cone, you can find some of the world’s most unique flavors such as Japanese Matcha Pistachio, or the Middle East inspired Glazed Tahani Date.  Plus seasonal flavors are always available and being tested with the goal of introducing you to the world. 

Cup & Cone offers customizable recipes, allowing you to BYOB (Build Your Own Boba). You can choose your tea base from one of the many freshly made teas, and add toppings like fresh fruit or popping boba for an extra burst of flavor. This level of customization ensures that every drink is a personalized delight, tailored to your preferences.

For those looking to feed a few more mouths, Cup & Cone offers catering as well as bespoke ice cream cakes that are perfect for any event.  Their Cake Designer, Dana, is a beloved Bethany business owner who has been making cakes for 11+ years. Her cake creations are truly an edible work of art.

Globally Inspired, Served in Portland

Cup & Cone isn’t just a place to satisfy your cravings; it’s a destination where you can connect with your neighbors and live globally, all without leaving Portland.  

So, if you find yourself in Portland and in need of a delicious treat, make sure you add Cup & Cone to discover the artistry and passion that goes into every item served, and embark on a flavorful journey that will leave you craving more. 

Share With Us on Social Media

Share your love for Bubble Tea by tagging @thebetterboba on Instagram with your favorite Bubble Tea Drink or Boba Bar setup. Our favorites have a chance to win free boba! 

Ever wonder what’s in your boba? Boba (also known as bubble tea) continues to grow in populariTEA across North America. According to forecasting reports, the boba market is expected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027. However, most consumers don’t know that the majority of packaged boba available in North America does not mirror the natural, artisanal boba in Taiwan. 

What’s in boba?

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A post shared by Better Boba (@thebetterboba)

Unfortunately, almost ALL of the packaged boba in North America is produced with artificial ingredients, modified starches, and preservatives. “Modified” means the tapioca flour was treated with chemicals to change its structure and make it more resistant to breakage. Many of the nutrients are lost during the modification process and there is a high risk of contamination. 

The Other Boba

Many consumers can’t digest packaged boba with artificial ingredients. General complaints include stomach cramps and other abdominal pain. 

We encourage you to read the labels and learn all about the other packaged boba pearls available in North America. They are loaded with synthetic and modified ingredients, artificial colors, and preservatives.

Check out the artificial ingredients in other classic pearls on the market, directly from their labels:

“company a”

• Water
• High-Fructose Corn Syrup
• Sucrose
• Dextrose Monohydrate
• Carrageenan Gum
• Konjac Powder
• Sodium Alginate
• Pectin
• Calcium Lactate
• Citric Acid
• Spices
• Locust Bean Gum
• Guar Gum
• Xanthan Gum
• DL-Malic Acid
• Sodium Metaphosphate
• Potassium Chloride
• Caramel Colors
• Monobasic Calcium Phosphate
• Gellan Gum
• Calcium Chloride
• Potassium Sorbate
• Acesulfame Potassium
• Sucralose
• FD&C Red #40
• FD&C Yellow #5
• FD&C Blue #1

“company b”

• Tapioca Starch
• Water
• Modified Starch
• Potato Starch
• Potassium Sorbate
• Xanthan Gum
• Caramel Color
• Sucralose
• Sodium
• Carboxymethyl Cellulose
• Maple Flavor

Better Boba

• Organic Tapioca Starch
• Organic Brown Sugar
• Xanthan Gum
• Water

The Better Choice is clear… It’s Better Boba.

With only four natural ingredients – the way artisanal boba was originally created in Taiwan –  better boba is soft, delicious, and easy to digest. 

As more ingredients are restricted and banned across the world, it becomes even more important to produce a healthier alternative. The fewer ingredients, the fewer opportunities of a recall, contamination, or ingredient scarcity. For business owners, having a boba produced in the United States limits international fulfillment delays, increased costs, and inventory headaches.  By limiting ingredients and controlling production, we are confident that our boba is a better alternative.

Enjoy Boba Responsibly

We want you to not only love boba but also love that you can enjoy a natural, delicious boba without artificial ingredients and preservatives. From ice cream to acai bowls, enjoy your boba responsibly. 

Share with Us on Social Media

Share your love for bubble tea by tagging @thebetterboba on Instagram with your favorite boba creation! We love to giveaway free boba.

Add An All Natural Flair To Your Next Summer Party

Welcome to the world of Better Boba, where our passion and creativity come together to redefine the art of boba-making. Our premium boba pearls are meticulously crafted with only four natural ingredients, creating a chewy and satisfying texture that takes your boba drinks to new heights. It’s time to get ready for the ultimate boba experience and entertain your guests this summer. Enter: The Boba Bar. 

The Boba Bar is the perfect addition to any summer celebration; Graduation Party, Pool Party, or everyday BBQ.  We suggest creating a DIY buffet so that guests can make their own drinks.  For those of you that are feeling fancy, a “Bobatender” makes an unforgettable impression. For the DIY crowd, prepare a bag of Classic Boba in advance, curate the ingredients for your guests, and be sure to provide reusable boba straws to eliminate single-use plastics. Bonus points for providing pre-made themed drink recipes for your guests to follow!

At Better Boba, we believe that boba is not just a drink; it’s an expression of joy and a celebration of flavors. That’s why we’ve curated a collection of exclusive boba drink recipes that will dazzle your taste buds and impress your guests. Let’s explore some exciting ways to incorporate our premium boba pearls into your boba bar creations. Now you can spend more time enjoying your boba, and less time stressing about preparing.  

Boba Bar Drink Recipes For Any Occasion

We understand that every event has a different vibe, so here are a few unique recipes to satisfy any crowd:

Classic Milk Tea Delight:

• Start with the timeless classic – milk tea. Brew a strong cup of black tea, add your choice of milk, and sweeten it to perfection. Then, generously scoop our premium classic boba into the glass, allowing them to soak in the creamy goodness. The result is a heavenly combination of velvety milk tea and delightful bursts of chewy boba pearls. For more detailed instructions visit our recipe page.

Boozy Boba Tropical Twist:

• Give your boba bar a refreshing twist with fruity and spiked boba drinks. Infuse your favorite fruit flavors into a base of sparkling water or fruit juice. Add a splash of sweetness with a simple syrup or honey. Top it off with our premium classic boba, and watch as the flavors dance on your palate. Mango, strawberry, passionfruit –  the possibilities are endless. Since not everyone can enjoy the adult versions, note that all drinks can also be made non-alcoholic.

Matcha Madness:

• Embrace the vibrant and earthy flavors of matcha in your boba creations. Whisk up a bowl of ceremonial-grade matcha tea, sweeten it to your liking, and combine it with milk or a dairy-free alternative. Stir in our premium boba pearls and let them infuse with the enchanting matcha essence. The result is a harmonious blend of delicate matcha and delightful boba pearls.

Boba Mocktails:

• We know not everyone can enjoy an adult cocktail, so be sure to experiment with different fruit combinations, sparkling water, and herbal infusions. Mix and match flavors, garnish with fresh fruits and herbs and add our premium boba pearls as the grand finale. Your guests will be captivated by the visuals and mesmerized by the explosion of flavors.

A Boba Bar is an expression of you and your event, so be sure to get creative.  Themed drinks, creative decorations, and even funky setups will all help enhance your Boba Bar. Let your imagination soar, experiment with flavors, and delight in the joy of crafting unique boba creations. Elevate your boba experience, one pearl at a time, and watch as your guests sip with delight and marvel at the wonders of Better Boba. Cheers to the art of boba-making!

Share With Us on Social Media

Share your love for Bubble Tea by tagging @thebetterboba on Instagram with your favorite Bubble Tea Drink or Boba Bar setup. Our favorites have a chance to win free boba! 

Celebrate Sustainability with Worthy Picks: Unveiling the Story of Bamboo Boba Straws 

Origin Story of the Bamboo Boba Straw

Our Better Boba family would love to share the story behind Worthy Picks Buluh Bamboo Boba Straws. The story begins when founder and CEO Anahi went on a trip with her family to Bali. As they explored the picturesque landscapes with their children, they stumbled upon something truly remarkable – beautiful bamboo straws. Their entire family was captivated by their elegance and eco-friendliness, and it was love at first sight.

As avid world travelers, they couldn’t ignore the harsh reality of the damage caused by single-use plastics to our precious planet. This experience served as a wake-up call, urging them to take action and make a positive change. Behold, Worthy Picks was born, with a mission to offer natural alternatives to single-use plastics and help individuals create a sustainable lifestyle while supporting and investing in the small villages on the mountainside of Bali. 

Bamboo Straw Process 

The bamboo straws offered by Worthy Picks are more than just straws; they are nature’s gifts. Crafted from strong and durable bamboo, these straws are 100% natural, biodegradable, and sustainably sourced. Providing straws that are free from inks, dyes, and artificial elements ensures a safe and authentic drinking experience for customers. Each 8-inch bamboo straw is unique, deriving from a single stem of bamboo, showcasing its own variations in color, thickness, and texture. It’s a testament to the wonders of nature and the authenticity that Worthy Picks cherish. 

To bring these amazing straws to their customers, Worthy Picks work closely with small family-owned Balinese artisans who hold the expertise and craftsmanship. These artisans handcraft each straw with utmost care and precision, ensuring that every straw meets its rigorous quality standards.

The journey of a bamboo straw starts with the careful harvesting of mature bamboo stems, which reach maturity in under five months. The bamboo stems are meticulously cut, dried, and shaped into straw sizes. The crucial steps of cleaning, polishing, boiling, and drying follow, preparing the straws for shipment.

Mountainside to Cup

Once the straws arrive at their facility in California, Worthy Picks takes the responsibility of inspecting each and every straw personally. This thorough quality check guarantees the packing and shipping of only impeccable straws to their valued customers, ensuring a beautiful connection with the growers that goes beyond business – one built on trust, fairness, and a shared passion for sustainability. Regular visits to Indonesia further strengthen this bond and contribute to positive changes in plastic consumption.

The knowledge gained from the growers has been invaluable for Worthy Picks. They continuously strive to reduce plastic in their own lives and even in the shipping process. They deeply appreciate the craftsmanship, hard work, and dedication of their growers and are grateful for the impact they create.

Worthy Picks Mission

With Worthy Picks, customers have access to alternatives that go beyond convenience. Choosing bamboo straws means making a conscious decision to support a healthier planet and a healthier lifestyle. By adding these natural, non-GMO, and vegan straws in your daily routine, customers contribute to the reduction of single-use plastics and take a significant step towards a more sustainable future.

Join Worthy Picks on this journey of conscious living. Explore their collection of natural and eco-friendly products, including elegant bamboo straws. Sip from nature’s embrace and become part of the positive change that our world deserves.

Choose Worthy Picks and be a catalyst for sustainable living.

Better Boba & Worthy Picks Partnership  

At Better Boba, we are committed to creating a better world for future generations. Better Boba is always on the lookout for like-minded partners to collaborate. We are excited to announce our boba straw partnership with a company that shares our values – Worthy Picks; the future of sustainable straws.

We’re renowned for committing to the use of only all-natural, non-GMO, and vegan ingredients in our Better Boba tapioca pearls. But we wanted to take things a step further and reduce the environmental impact of boba drinkers as a whole. That’s where Worthy Picks thrives.

By partnering with Worthy Picks, we’re able to offer our customers a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic straws. These bamboo straws are not only environmentally friendly, but also completely natural, biodegradable, and compostable. They can be reused over and over again, adding a perfect touch to any eco-conscious lifestyle. And the best part? Once you’ve used these straws for four years, you can throw them into your compost or garden when you’re done using them!

We’re excited to be able to offer our customers the option to upgrade to these premium, all-natural bamboo straws with their orders of Better Boba. It’s a small but meaningful step towards a more sustainable future, and we’re proud to be a part of it.

Our partnership with Worthy Picks goes beyond just straws. We’re working together to spread the word about the importance of reducing single-use plastics and to encourage our communiTEA to make more sustainable choices in their daily lives.

Together, we’re on a mission to create a world where sustainability is the norm, and where businesses prioritize the health of the planet as much as they do their profits. It’s a big goal, however, we are committed to achieving it. 

Next time you order your favorite All Natural Better Boba Tapioca Pearls, consider upgrading to a bamboo straw. It may seem like a small choice, but every little bit counts when it comes to creating a better, more sustainable world. And with partners like Worthy Picks by our side, we know we’re on the right track.