Performance Energy Drink

Image: Open Food Facts (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Common questions

Is Performance Energy Drink healthy?

Performance Energy Drink scores 62/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This energy drink contains beneficial ingredients like Carnosyn Beta-Alanine and L-Citrulline, which are known for enhancing athletic performance.

How processed is Performance Energy Drink?

Performance Energy Drink is NOVA Group 4: Ultra-Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive Performance Energy Drink's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Carnosyn Beta-Alanine, L-Citrulline, Niacinamide count in its favor; Potassium Sorbate, Natural Flavors, Sucralose are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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Performance Energy Drink

C4
62 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 3
Harmful ingredients 4
Owned by Nutrabolt
Category Energy Drinks
Summary

This energy drink contains beneficial ingredients like Carnosyn Beta-Alanine and L-Citrulline, which are known for enhancing athletic performance. However, it also includes artificial sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium, which are often criticized for potential negative health effects. The presence of preservatives and natural flavors further contributes to its high level of processing, impacting the overall score.

Key ingredients 14

Carnosyn Beta-Alanine
Good

Carnosyn Beta-Alanine is a beneficial ingredient known for enhancing athletic performance by increasing muscle carnosine levels. It helps buffer acid in muscles, which can improve endurance and reduce fatigue. This ingredient is often used in sports supplements for its performance-enhancing effects.

Risks

Excessive intake may cause paresthesia, a tingling sensation, but it is generally considered safe at recommended doses.

Benefits

Improves exercise performance and reduces muscle fatigue, making it beneficial for athletes.

See more about Carnosyn Beta-Alanine →
L-Citrulline
Good

L-Citrulline is an amino acid that can improve blood flow and enhance exercise performance. It is converted into L-arginine and nitric oxide in the body, which helps in vasodilation. This ingredient is popular in pre-workout supplements for its potential to boost athletic performance.

Benefits

Enhances blood flow and exercise performance, supporting cardiovascular health.

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Niacinamide
Good

Vitamin B3 — evidence-backed skin and metabolic benefits.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and may contribute to skin health.

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Carbonated Water
Neutral

Carbonated water is a neutral ingredient that provides the base for the beverage. It is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. There are no significant health impacts associated with carbonated water itself.

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Malic Acid
Neutral

Malic acid is a naturally occurring acid that adds tartness to foods and beverages. It is commonly used as a flavor enhancer and is generally recognized as safe. It is found in many fruits and contributes to the sour taste.

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Betapower Betaine Anhydrous
Neutral

Betaine anhydrous is a compound that may support heart health and improve physical performance. It is derived from sugar beets and is used in supplements for its potential benefits in reducing homocysteine levels. However, its effects are not universally recognized.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.

Benefits

May support cardiovascular health and improve exercise performance.

Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a common food additive used to enhance flavor and preserve ingredients. It is naturally found in citrus fruits and is widely used in the food industry. It is generally recognized as safe when consumed in typical amounts.

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Caffeine Anhydrous
Neutral

Caffeine anhydrous is a dehydrated form of caffeine that provides a concentrated dose of this stimulant. It is commonly used in energy drinks for its ability to enhance alertness and reduce fatigue. While effective, excessive consumption can lead to negative health effects.

Risks

Excessive intake can lead to jitteriness, insomnia, and increased heart rate.

Benefits

Enhances mental alertness and reduces fatigue, supporting cognitive performance.

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N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine
Neutral

N-Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is a modified form of the amino acid tyrosine, which supports cognitive function and stress response. It is used in supplements for its potential to enhance mental performance. However, its benefits are not universally recognized.

Benefits

May support cognitive function and stress response.

Cyanocobalamin
Neutral

Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 used to prevent and treat B12 deficiency. It is essential for nerve function and the production of red blood cells. While beneficial, it is typically present in small amounts in energy drinks.

Benefits

Supports nerve function and red blood cell production.

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Potassium Sorbate
Bad

Potassium sorbate is a preservative used to extend shelf life by inhibiting mold and yeast growth. While effective, it is a synthetic additive that some consumers prefer to avoid. It is generally recognized as safe but can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Risks

May cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals.

Benefits

Extends shelf life by preventing spoilage from mold and yeast.

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Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are a catch-all term for flavoring agents derived from natural sources. The lack of transparency about their specific composition can be concerning for some consumers. They are used to enhance taste but offer no nutritional benefits.

Risks

Lack of transparency can be concerning for consumers with allergies or sensitivities.

Benefits

Enhances the flavor profile of the product.

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Sucralose
Bad

Sucralose is an artificial sweetener used to provide sweetness without calories. While it is widely used and considered safe, some studies suggest potential negative effects on gut health. It is often criticized for being a synthetic additive.

Risks

Potential negative effects on gut microbiota and long-term health are a concern.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without adding calories, making it suitable for low-calorie products.

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Acesulfame Potassium
Bad

Acesulfame potassium is an artificial sweetener used to enhance sweetness without calories. It is often used in combination with other sweeteners to improve taste. While approved for use, there are concerns about its long-term health effects.

Risks

Potential long-term health effects are a concern, though it is generally recognized as safe.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories, often used in sugar-free products.

See more about Acesulfame Potassium →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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