Ingredient · Updated

Caffeine

Neutral in 12

Found in 12 productsSee all

What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a natural stimulant commonly found in coffee, tea, and other plant-based sources. It is usually extracted through water or solvent extraction processes from these natural sources, or it can be synthesized in a laboratory.

Caffeine is mainly used to enhance alertness, improve concentration, and reduce the perception of fatigue. It works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain. Most studies show that moderate caffeine intake is generally safe and can offer benefits like increased cognitive performance and reduced risk of certain neurodegenerative diseases, though excessive consumption might cause jitteriness, insomnia, or increased heart rate.

When you see caffeine on a label, it indicates an added boost of energy, typically in beverages or supplements. Keep an eye on total consumption to avoid potential negative effects associated with high doses.

Commonly found in: Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks, Supplements, Sodas

What to watch

  • High doses may cause insomnia and increased heart rate.

Benefits

  • Enhances focus and alertness, beneficial for cognitive performance.
  • May reduce risk of certain neurodegenerative diseases when consumed in moderation.
FDA

Caffeine is considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA when consumed in moderate amounts.

Research

Research shows benefits in cognitive performance, but mixed findings on long-term health impacts, especially in high doses.

Vegan

Caffeine is plant-derived and typically acceptable to vegans.

Sources: Caffeine & Health

Scout's take

Caffeine is never penalized under doctrine; neutral as an isolated ingredient.

The case against

Likely synthetic caffeine. May cause jitters or sleep disruption in sensitive individuals.

from the analysis of Zevia Zero Sugar Energy Drink · echoed in 1 other analysis

Excessive consumption may lead to insomnia, jitteriness, and increased heart rate.

from the analysis of Rockstar Recovery Orange with Electrolytes Energy Drink Can · echoed in 1 other analysis

The case for

Enhances energy, focus, and physical performance at a moderate dose.

from the analysis of Santa Cruz Paleo Pre Workout Powder

Provides alertness and energy at a moderate 120mg dose.

from the analysis of Zevia Zero Sugar Energy Drink

More from Scout's analyses

Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.

from the analysis of Rockstar Recovery Orange with Electrolytes Energy Drink Can

120mg per can is a moderate dose. However, no source is specified — no organic, green coffee, or plant-derived claim — suggesting synthetic caffeine anhydrous rather than plant-derived.

from the analysis of Zevia Zero Sugar Energy Drink

150mg caffeine provides moderate energy and alertness for workout performance. A well-balanced dose that avoids overstimulation while still enhancing focus and physical output.

from the analysis of Santa Cruz Paleo Pre Workout Powder

All 12 products with Caffeine

Where Caffeine shows up

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