How Much Caffeine Is in Common Drinks and Supplements?

Give typical ranges for coffee, tea, soft drinks, energy drinks, and supplements, with the warning that exact amounts vary.

Coffee and tea

A typical serving of brewed coffee often lands around 80 to 120 milligrams of caffeine, though real servings can fall outside that range. Tea usually contains less per serving, but type and steeping time matter.

Packaged drinks and supplements

Soft drinks, energy drinks, powders, sticks, and capsules can provide a more fixed amount when the label states caffeine clearly. Some supplements use direct caffeine while others use botanicals that contain it.

Put the number in context

FDA cites 400 milligrams per day as an amount not generally associated with negative effects for most adults. Sensitivity differs, so use the label and your total daily intake rather than a single category average.

What to check before you choose a product

Read the serving size, ingredient list, amount per serving when provided, directions, warnings, and storage information. Keep ingredient research separate from claims about a finished multi-ingredient product.