MAC Energy Drink — Proper Punch

D-Beta-Hydroxybutyric acid, an exogenous ketone body. Provides an energy substrate the brain and muscle can use directly without stimulants, and is the ingredient behind the product's 'clean energy from ketones' positioning. A genuine functional active rather than label decoration.

Citicoline sodium, a well-studied nootropic that supports acetylcholine synthesis and membrane phospholipids. Cognizin is the branded, clinically-dosed form, so the amount is disclosed rather than buried in a proprietary blend.

The amide form of vitamin B3, supporting cellular energy metabolism through NAD+. Better tolerated than nicotinic acid because it does not cause the niacin flush.

The bioactive coenzyme form of vitamin B6, usable without hepatic conversion. A deliberately higher-quality choice than the pyridoxine HCl most energy drinks use.

The bioactive form of vitamin B12, more readily retained than the synthetic cyanocobalamin found in most of this category. Supports nerve function and red blood cell formation.

The bioactive form of folate, bypassing the MTHFR conversion step that limits folic acid uptake in a meaningful share of the population. A premium choice over synthetic folic acid.

Plain water with dissolved carbon dioxide. Carbonation has no meaningful effect on the nutritional profile of the drink.

A common acidulant used for tartness and pH control. Typically produced by fermentation; no meaningful health concern at beverage levels.

Caffeine extracted from green coffee beans — a natural source rather than synthetic caffeine anhydrous. At 200mg per can this is a substantial but standard dose for the category. Natural caffeine sources are not penalized.

An undefined catch-all permitting dozens of undisclosed compounds, including carriers and solvents that never appear on the label. Near-universal in this category, but it is still a transparency gap.

A chlorinated artificial sweetener. Emerging evidence links it to gut microbiome disruption, and it is the single ingredient keeping this formula out of the clean, stevia-and-monk-fruit tier.

A synthetic preservative that inhibits mould and yeast. Generally well tolerated, but part of the standard dual chemical preservative system this drink shares with most mainstream energy drinks.

A synthetic preservative that can form trace benzene when combined with ascorbic acid, though no vitamin C is present in this formula. Paired here with potassium sorbate as the preservative system.