Caffeine in Common Drinks
Caffeine content varies widely between brands, brewing methods and serving sizes. The figures below are the ranges the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) gives in its consumer guidance, all for a 12 fluid ounce serving unless noted. Check labels where they list caffeine.
| Drink | Servingfl oz | Caffeinemg |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeinated soft drink | 12 | 23 to 83 |
| Green tea | 12 | About 37 |
| Black tea | 12 | About 71 |
| Brewed coffee (regular, not specialty) | 12 | 113 to 247 |
| Energy drink | 12 | 41 to 246 |
| Energy drink (typical 16 oz can) | 16 | 54 to 328 |
Notes
- The FDA cites 400 mg a day as an amount not generally associated with negative effects for most healthy adults, about two to three 12 ounce cups of coffee.
- The FDA estimates that toxic effects such as seizures can occur with rapid consumption of around 1,200 mg, and warns that pure or highly concentrated caffeine products are dangerous.
- Decaffeinated coffee and tea still contain small amounts of caffeine.
- A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found 400 mg of caffeine taken 6 hours before bed reduced measured sleep by more than an hour.
Frequently asked questions
How long before bed should I stop caffeine?
Research supports avoiding substantial caffeine for at least 6 hours before bed, and sensitive people may need longer.
Does caffeine affect everyone the same way?
No. The FDA notes wide variation in how sensitive people are to caffeine and how fast they clear it.
Is caffeine safe in pregnancy?
The FDA advises people who are pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breastfeeding to talk with their health care provider about caffeine.
Sources
More reference tables
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