Caffeinated energy shots

On this page

• About caffeinated energy shots
• What to look for on the label of caffeinated energy shots
• How to report a concern with caffeinated energy shots

About caffeinated energy shots

Caffeinated energy shots are classified as natural health products (NHPs) as they are caffeinated products that are:

• packaged in a small container of 90 mL or less
• meant to be consumed at once as a quick shot

It's important to note that shots aren't to be consumed like other caffeinated drinks since they are:

• more concentrated
• restricted to consumption by adults 18 years and older
• restricted to a total of 200 mg of caffeine per shot and 400 mg per day

The maximum single dose of 200 mg per shot is based on recognized limits that shouldn't pose safety risks for the general healthy adult population.

Note that the maximum allowed single dose for caffeinated energy drinks differs from those of the shots.

Caffeinated energy drinks aren't restricted to adults only but may also be consumed by adolescents 14 years and older.

Learn more about caffeinated energy drinks.

What to look for on the label of caffeinated energy shots

Only adults 18 years and older should consume caffeinated energy shots.

You shouldn't consume caffeinated energy shots if you are younger than 18 years old.

For adults 18 years and older, if you consume caffeinated energy shots, read the label carefully to get information on:

• how much caffeine is in the container
• the maximum number of shots per day
• additional warnings and contraindications that may apply to you

You can identify energy shots that have been licensed for sale in Canada by looking for the 8-digit natural product number (NPN) on the label. A NPN means that the product has been authorized for sale in Canada.

How to report a concern with caffeinated energy shots

You're encouraged to report a concern about a caffeinated energy shot to Health Canada if, for example:

• it's missing the restriction for adults
• it may contain more than 200 mg of caffeine per shot

To report a suspected adverse reaction (side effect) to Health Canada:

• complete and submit a report online
• call toll-free at 1-866-234-2345
• download and print a paper copy of the form to submit by:
  • fax toll-free at 1-866-678-6789 OR
  • mail to (pre-paid label is available):

    Canada Vigilance Program
    Health Canada
    Address locator 1908C
    Ottawa ON K1A 0K9