Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant with a slightly bitter taste. It is found in the seeds, leaves and fruits of many plants but it can also be man-made. We often consume this stimulant in beverages and foods such as tea, coffee, soda and cocoa beans or chocolate. Manufacturers will sometimes add caffeine to sodas or other beverages to enhance taste. If an item contains added caffeine, it will be listed in the ingredients list. However, the actual amount of caffeine contained in the item is often not noted.
Caffeine Content in Cola
According to the USDA Nutrient Database, a 12-oz. cola-type beverage contains 29 mg of caffeine, whereas a Dr. Pepper-type cola beverage contains 37 mg. This is in close agreement with the manufacturers' websites for Coca Cola and Dr. Pepper, which list caffeine contents of 34 and 42 mg respectively for a 12-oz. can. The best way to ensure the exact caffeine content of your favorite beverage is to contact the manufacturer directly to obtain caffeine information.
Caffeine Content of Coffee
Caffeine content of coffee can vary greatly depending on the method and length of brewing time and the grind and type of coffee bean. According to the USDA Nutrient Database, a 12-oz. cup of coffee brewed from grounds has 142 mg of caffeine. The Mayo Clinic website, adjusting for a 12-oz. cup, lists the caffeine content of brewed Dunkin' Donuts coffee at between 107 and 155 mg. Since the caffeine content varies more in coffee, the best way to determine how much caffeine is in your favorite cup of coffee is to directly contact the manufacturer. Toll-free numbers are often listed on the package or on their websites.
Caffeine Content of Espresso Coffee
The caffeine content of an espresso is much higher per ounce and is therefore consumed in a much smaller quantity, typically 1 oz. According to the USDA Nutrient Database, a 1 oz. serving of espresso brewed from grounds has 64 mg of caffeine. The Mayo Clinic website lists the caffeine content of a Starbucks Espresso between 58 and 75 mg per ounce. Compare this to the 9 to 13 mg of caffeine typically seen in 1 oz. of regular brewed coffee. However, since the typical serving is only 1 oz., the overall caffeine content consumed is about half that of a regular cup of coffee.
Decaffeinated Coffee still has Caffeine
Be aware that although decaffeinated coffee has the majority of the caffeine removed, it still contains a small amount. Approximately 3 to 18 mg of caffeine per 12 oz. cup is typical depending on brand.
Moderate Intake
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has deemed caffeine as "Generally Recognized As Safe." However, it is a good idea to keep caffeine intake in a moderate range to avoid side effects associated with increased consumption such as headaches or anxiety.
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