Energy Drink

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Common questions

Is Energy Drink healthy?

Energy Drink scores 61/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This energy drink contains a moderate amount of added sugar, which is a concern due to its potential impact on blood sugar levels and metabolic health.

How processed is Energy Drink?

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

Which ingredients drive Energy Drink's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Taurine, L-Carnitine, Guarana Seed Extract count in its favor; Organic Light Agave Nectar, Sugar, Natural Flavors 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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Energy Drink

61 Fair

Analysis updated September 2026 · How Scout scores

$26.98 · 16 oz · $0.11 / fluid ounce
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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 11
Harmful ingredients 3
Category Energy Drinks
Summary

This energy drink contains a moderate amount of added sugar, which is a concern due to its potential impact on blood sugar levels and metabolic health. However, it includes beneficial ingredients like natural caffeine from green coffee beans, L-carnitine, and guarana seed extract, which contribute positively to energy and focus. The presence of natural flavors and a few additives indicates a level of processing, but the inclusion of several vitamins and amino acids helps balance the formulation.

Key ingredients 21

Taurine
Good

Taurine is an amino acid that supports neurological development and regulates water and mineral levels in the blood. It is often included in energy drinks for its potential to improve athletic performance and mental focus. Taurine is naturally found in meat and fish.

Benefits

May improve exercise performance and support cardiovascular health.

See more about Taurine →
L-Carnitine
Good

L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy production by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria. It is often used in energy drinks for its potential to enhance exercise performance and recovery. L-Carnitine is naturally found in animal products.

Benefits

May improve exercise performance and support fat metabolism.

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Guarana Seed Extract
Good

Guarana seed extract is a natural source of caffeine, known for its stimulant properties. It is often used in energy drinks to enhance alertness and energy levels. Guarana contains antioxidants and may improve cognitive function.

Risks

Excessive consumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects such as insomnia and increased heart rate.

Benefits

Enhances energy and alertness, and provides antioxidants.

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Inositol
Good

Inositol is a carbohydrate found in many foods, often included in energy drinks for its potential to improve mood and cognitive function. It plays a role in cell signaling and insulin sensitivity. Inositol is naturally present in fruits and grains.

Benefits

May support mental health and improve insulin sensitivity.

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Niacinamide
Good

Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, is essential for energy metabolism and DNA repair. It is included in energy drinks to support overall health and energy production. Niacinamide is water-soluble and found in many foods.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and overall health.

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D-Calcium Pantothenate
Good

D-Calcium Pantothenate is a form of Vitamin B5, important for synthesizing coenzyme A and supporting energy metabolism. It is included in energy drinks to enhance energy production and reduce fatigue. Vitamin B5 is water-soluble and found in various foods.

Benefits

Supports energy metabolism and reduces fatigue.

See more about D-Calcium Pantothenate →
Pyridoxine Hydrochloride
Good

Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, or Vitamin B6, is crucial for protein metabolism and cognitive development. It is included in energy drinks to support brain health and energy production. Vitamin B6 is water-soluble and found in many foods.

Benefits

Supports brain health and energy metabolism.

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Glutamine
Good

Glutamine is an amino acid that supports immune function and gut health. It is often included in energy drinks for its potential to aid recovery and muscle repair. Glutamine is naturally found in protein-rich foods.

Benefits

Supports immune function and muscle recovery.

Ginseng Root Extract
Good

Ginseng root extract is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and improve energy levels. It is often used in energy drinks for its potential to enhance mental and physical performance. Ginseng contains antioxidants and may support immune health.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to insomnia and nervousness.

Benefits

Enhances energy, reduces stress, and provides antioxidants.

Milk Thistle Seed Extract
Good

Milk thistle seed extract is known for its liver-protective properties, often used to support liver health and detoxification. It contains silymarin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Milk thistle is commonly used in herbal medicine.

Benefits

Supports liver health and provides antioxidant benefits.

Cyanocobalamin
Good

Cyanocobalamin, or Vitamin B12, is essential for nerve function and the production of DNA and red blood cells. It is included in energy drinks to support energy metabolism and overall health. Vitamin B12 is water-soluble and found in animal products.

Benefits

Supports nerve function and energy metabolism.

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Carbonated Water
Neutral

Carbonated water is simply water infused with carbon dioxide gas under pressure. It is a common base for many beverages and does not contribute any significant nutritional value. It is generally considered safe and neutral in terms of health impact.

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Citric Acid
Neutral

Citric acid is a natural acid found in citrus fruits, used as a preservative and flavor enhancer. It is generally recognized as safe and is commonly used in food and beverages. It can enhance flavor without adding calories.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to dental erosion.

Benefits

Acts as a natural preservative and enhances flavor.

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Sodium Citrate
Neutral

Sodium citrate is a salt of citric acid used as a preservative and to regulate acidity. It is commonly used in beverages and is generally recognized as safe. It helps maintain the stability and taste of the product.

Benefits

Helps maintain product stability and enhances flavor.

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Natural Caffeine
Neutral

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

Risks

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

Benefits

Enhances mental alertness and physical performance.

See more about Natural Caffeine →
Gum Acacia
Neutral

Gum acacia is a natural gum made from the hardened sap of acacia trees, used as a stabilizer and emulsifier. It is considered safe and is often used in food products to improve texture. It is a source of soluble fiber.

Benefits

Provides soluble fiber and helps stabilize the product.

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Rebaudioside A
Neutral

Rebaudioside A is a steviol glycoside derived from the stevia plant, used as a natural, zero-calorie sweetener. It is considered safe and does not affect blood sugar levels. It is a popular alternative to artificial sweeteners.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without calories or impact on blood sugar.

See more about Rebaudioside A →
Glycerol Ester of Wood Rosin
Neutral

Glycerol ester of wood rosin is used as a stabilizer in beverages to keep oils in suspension. It is generally recognized as safe and does not contribute to the nutritional profile of the product. It helps maintain the consistency of the drink.

Benefits

Helps stabilize the product and maintain consistency.

Organic Light Agave Nectar
Bad

Agave nectar is a sweetener derived from the agave plant, often used as an alternative to sugar. Despite being organic, it is high in fructose, which can contribute to metabolic issues when consumed in excess. The processing of agave nectar can also strip away beneficial nutrients.

Risks

High fructose content may lead to insulin resistance and liver issues when consumed excessively.

Benefits

Provides a sweet taste with a lower glycemic index than regular sugar.

Sugar
Bad

Sugar is a simple carbohydrate that provides quick energy but can lead to health issues when consumed in large amounts. It is associated with increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. The high sugar content in energy drinks is particularly concerning due to its potential to spike blood sugar levels.

Risks

Excessive sugar intake is linked to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.

Benefits

Provides a quick source of energy but lacks other nutritional benefits.

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Natural Flavors
Bad

Natural flavors are derived from plant or animal sources but can be highly processed and contain additives. The lack of transparency in what constitutes 'natural flavors' can be concerning for consumers. They are often used to enhance taste without providing nutritional benefits.

Risks

Potential allergens and additives may be present without clear labeling.

Benefits

Enhances flavor without adding calories.

See more about Natural Flavors →

Processing

Group 4 · Ultra-processed

Ultra-Processed Foods

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