Grocers stock energy drinks and soft drinks in separate aisles because it’s easy for consumers to confuse the two: both are sweet, carbonated, and marketed to teens. But there’s a big difference in allowable caffeine levels, according to FDA rules…
Caffeine in soft drinks:
- 71 mg per 12 fluid ounces (upper limit)
- Caffeine does not have to be listed on the “Nutrition Panel”
Caffeine in energy drinks:
- Any amount the manufacturer considers safe
- Caffeine must appear on the “Supplement Facts” label, but specifying the quantity of caffeine is voluntary
Soft drinks are conventional foods, while energy drinks and shots are classified as dietary supplements. (Confused? Chapter 5 contains a section on FDA Regulations which details the differences.)