Caffeinated energy drinks

On this page

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

About caffeinated energy drinks

Caffeinated energy drinks are prepackaged drinks or dry mixes that contain added caffeine above a specific amount. They also typically contain other ingredients such as:

• taurine
• B vitamins
• minerals
• herbal ingredients

Caffeinated energy drinks can also contain guarana and yerba mate, which are natural sources of caffeine.

We restrict the amount of caffeine from all sources to a total of 180 mg per serving of a caffeinated energy drink.

We also limit the amount of other added ingredients like taurine, B vitamins and minerals.

What to look for on the label of caffeinated energy drinks

All caffeinated energy drinks must have:

• the statement "high caffeine content"
• a supplemented food caution identifier
• the cautionary statements:
  • "Not recommended for those under 14 years old, pregnant or breastfeeding women or individuals sensitive to caffeine"
  • "Do not drink more than X serving(s) per day"

You should not consume caffeinated energy drinks if you are:

• a child
• pregnant or breastfeeding
• an individual sensitive to caffeine

For others, if you consume caffeinated energy drinks, read the label to know:

• how much caffeine is in the container
• the maximum number of servings you should consume

How to report a concern with caffeinated energy drinks

If you have a concern about a caffeinated energy drink, such as 1 with more than 180 mg of caffeine per serving, or 1 that is missing cautionary statements, we encourage you to report it to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

You may also find caffeinated energy shots available for sale in Canada. Caffeinated energy shots are different from caffeinated energy drinks. The sale of these products is restricted under the Natural Health Products Regulations for consumption by adults 18 years and older. If you find a caffeinated energy shot without this age restriction on its label, we encourage you to report it to Health Canada.

Related links

• Caffeine in food
• About supplemented foods and their labels
• Notice to industry about caffeinated energy drinks
• E-commerce: Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• Find recalls, advisories and safety alerts
• Caffeinated energy shots
• Public advisory - Caffeinated energy drinks: what you should know