Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages have become a popular way to enjoy coffee, tea, and functional drinks on the go. Many of these products contain caffeine to provide an energy boost.
| Ready-to-Drink | fl oz | Calories | Caffeine mg | mg/ floz |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffe Borghetti | 1.5 fl oz | 180 calories per 100 ml | 30 mg | 20 |
| Root Beer Barq’s | 12 fl oz | 160 | 22 mg | 1.83 |
| Starbucks Frappuccino Bottle | 13.7 fl oz | 300 | 130 mg | 9.5 mg |
The Source Of Caffeine
RTD beverages include caffeine in different ways. Some use natural brewing methods, while others add caffeine extracts or powders. The method affects the flavor and caffeine level in the final product.
- Brewed Tea or Coffee: Many RTD drinks use real brewed tea or coffee. This method provides natural caffeine along with other compounds that influence taste and aroma.
- Natural Extracts: Some beverages add caffeine from natural extracts such as green coffee bean extract. These extracts provide caffeine without the brewing process.
- Added Caffeine Powder or Synthetic Sources: Certain energy drinks and flavored waters include pure caffeine powder or synthetic caffeine for a precise energy boost.
Each source offers different caffeine amounts. Brewed drinks tend to have a balanced caffeine level with natural flavors. Extracts provide a middle ground, adding caffeine without brewing.
Caffeine Content By Type
Caffeine levels differ significantly across RTD beverage categories. Each type offers a unique caffeine range based on ingredients and serving size. Here are some common RTD beverage types and their typical caffeine content:
- RTD Coffee drinks: These usually have the highest caffeine, ranging from 150–225 mg per bottle.
- RTD Iced Teas: Caffeine content varies by tea type, generally between 25–90 mg.
- Caffeinated waters & functional drinks: These newer options offer a moderate caffeine amount, usually 75–125 mg per serving.
Understanding these caffeine differences helps consumers make informed choices. It also assists in avoiding excessive caffeine intake. Always check the label for exact caffeine amounts since brands can vary.
Key Considerations
Always check the nutrition label for exact caffeine per serving. Caffeine content varies widely across RTD beverages. Some drinks may have low caffeine, while others contain high amounts similar to energy drinks.
Content can vary across flavors within the same brand. One flavor may have more caffeine than another. The label will show the precise milligrams of caffeine per serving.
RTD coffee often contains caffeine levels close to energy drinks. Knowing this helps avoid consuming too much caffeine unknowingly. Look for these key items on the label:
- Caffeine amount (usually in mg per serving).
- Serving size to calculate total caffeine if you drink more.
- Ingredients that may add caffeine, like guarana or yerba mate.
- Sugar content, which can affect energy and health.
Reading the label carefully lets you choose RTD beverages safely. It helps balance caffeine with your daily limits. Always pay attention to caffeine levels, especially if sensitive or avoiding excess caffeine.