A 250 ml short-can energy drink usually contains about 80 mg of caffeine — similar to a cup of instant coffee — and, in regular versions, up to about 27 g of sugar. For healthy adults, EFSA considers up to 400 mg of caffeine a day and 200 mg in one sitting safe. Energy drinks are not recommended for children, teenagers, or pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Key facts at a glance
- Caffeine: about 80 mg per 250 ml (32 mg per 100 ml) is typical.
- Sugar: about 27 g in a regular can; zero in sugar-free versions.
- Taurine and B vitamins are standard but add little beyond caffeine.
- Short cans are the classic single-serve size worldwide.
- Mixing with alcohol is not advised; caffeine masks drunkenness.
Caffeine compared
| Drink | Typical caffeine |
|---|---|
| Energy drink, 250 ml | about 80 mg |
| Instant coffee, 1 cup | about 60–80 mg |
| Filter coffee, 240 ml | about 95–140 mg |
| Cola, 330 ml | about 30–40 mg |
| Black tea, 1 cup | about 40–50 mg |
Who should avoid energy drinks
- Children and teenagers.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women (EFSA advises under 200 mg caffeine a day in pregnancy).
- People with heart conditions, high blood pressure, anxiety or sleep problems.
- People taking stimulant medicines.
For brands
Key specifications are caffeine per can against each market’s limits and warning rules, sugar or sweetener system, flavour and colour, and can printing. See our energy drink ingredients and caffeine rules guide.
Frequently asked questions
How much caffeine is in a 250 ml energy drink?
Usually about 80 mg. Some brands contain more; always check the label.
How many energy drinks can I have per day?
It depends on your total caffeine intake. Healthy adults should stay under about 400 mg a day from all sources.
Is an energy drink stronger than coffee?
A 250 ml can is roughly equal to a cup of instant coffee and weaker than a large filter coffee.
Can energy drinks be dangerous?
Very high intakes can cause palpitations, anxiety and sleep problems, especially in sensitive people or with alcohol.
Energy drinks from ACM Beverage
ACM Beverage produces energy drinks in Vietnam for OEM and private label customers. See the Green Rage 250 ml energy drink or the energy drink range.
This article is general information, not medical advice.
