The Controversial Rise of Celsius Energy Drinks
Celsius has become a popular alternative in the energy drink market, often appealing to health-conscious consumers with claims of boosting metabolism and burning fat. However, this 'health halo' has been tarnished by a number of serious issues, including documented adverse health effects from high caffeine levels, legal challenges over misleading product claims, and supply chain blunders leading to recalls. The ongoing controversy warrants a closer look at what is inside these cans and the risks consumers should consider before drinking them.
High Caffeine Content and Associated Health Risks
One of the most immediate issues with Celsius drinks is their potent caffeine concentration. While a can of regular coffee contains around 95mg of caffeine, many Celsius products contain 200mg or more, with some formulations pushing this even higher. This high dose can have significant physiological effects, especially for individuals sensitive to caffeine or those with pre-existing health conditions.
Documented Adverse Side Effects
- Cardiovascular Strain: High caffeine intake can increase blood pressure and heart rate, leading to palpitations or irregular heart rhythms. Cardiologists have warned that excessive consumption can be particularly problematic for some individuals.
- Neurological Symptoms: Common side effects include jitters, anxiety, and insomnia. These symptoms are intensified by the combination of caffeine with other stimulants like guarana extract, which is also found in Celsius.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: For some, the ingredients in Celsius can cause upset stomachs or nausea. The combination of stimulants and other additives can disrupt normal digestive processes.
- Liver Injury: Research has linked high doses of green tea extract, an ingredient in Celsius, to liver injury, although the company does not disclose specific amounts.
- Dependence and Withdrawal: Regular consumption of high-caffeine beverages can lead to dependence. Users on social media platforms like TikTok have reported experiencing headaches and fatigue when attempting to stop, which are classic signs of caffeine withdrawal.
False Advertising and Class-Action Settlements
The company has also faced legal challenges regarding its marketing practices, which has damaged its reputation for transparency.
The 'No Preservatives' Lawsuit
In 2023, Celsius settled a $7.8 million class-action lawsuit over claims that it falsely advertised its drinks as containing “no preservatives”. The lawsuit alleged that the product contained citric acid, a common preservative, despite the company's claim that it was used solely for flavoring. The settlement resulted in payouts for consumers who purchased certain products between 2015 and 2022, and required Celsius to update its labeling.
Ongoing Securities Litigation
More recently, the company has faced a different type of legal battle. As of late 2024, Celsius Holdings, Inc. is the subject of a securities class-action lawsuit alleging that company insiders made false and misleading statements to artificially inflate the stock price. This suit seeks to recover losses for shareholders affected by the alleged securities fraud.
Manufacturing Errors and Recalls
Beyond health concerns and legal claims, Celsius has been involved in serious product mishaps, creating a significant consumer safety issue.
The Vodka Seltzer Recall
In July 2025, a recall was issued after a manufacturing error caused some Celsius Astro Vibe Energy Drinks to be mislabeled and filled with a vodka seltzer cocktail instead of the energy drink. The mistake occurred because Celsius and the alcohol brand High Noon use the same can supplier. The supplier mistakenly sent Celsius-labeled cans to High Noon’s production facility, where they were filled with the wrong beverage. While no illnesses were reported, the incident highlighted a major quality control and safety failure.
Comparison: Celsius vs. Other Energy Boosters
Understanding the composition of Celsius relative to other caffeinated beverages can help consumers make informed decisions.
| Feature | Celsius | Red Bull (8.4 oz) | Coffee (8 oz) | Matcha Green Tea (8 oz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caffeine (mg) | 200–270 | 80 | 95 | ~70 |
| Added Sugar | 0g | 27g | 0g (plain) | 0g (plain) |
| Artificial Sweeteners | Yes (sucralose) | Yes (aspartame, acesulfame K) | No | No |
| Other Stimulants | Guarana, Ginger, Green Tea Extract | Taurine | None | None |
| Metabolism Claim | Yes, company-sponsored studies | No | No | No |
Important Considerations for Consumers
For those who choose to consume Celsius, a few points are critical:
- Moderation is Key: Given the high caffeine content, it is advisable to limit intake to one or, at most, two cans per day.
- Health Conditions: Individuals with cardiovascular issues, anxiety disorders, or caffeine sensitivity should approach with caution or avoid altogether.
- Avoid Daily Use: Relying on stimulants to mask fatigue is a slippery slope. Health professionals emphasize addressing the root causes of low energy, such as poor sleep or nutrition, instead of habitually consuming energy drinks.
- Natural Alternatives: Consider natural, less-processed alternatives like black coffee or matcha, which offer a caffeine boost without the added stimulants and artificial ingredients found in Celsius.
- Age Restrictions: High-caffeine beverages are not recommended for children, teenagers, or pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Conclusion: A 'Healthy' Image Under Fire
The issue with Celsius drinks is multifaceted, stemming from its ingredient list, marketing practices, and recent operational failures. While the brand attempts to cultivate a 'healthy' image, its high stimulant content poses potential health risks for many consumers, and its past legal battles over misleading claims have undermined its credibility. The 2025 recall involving alcoholic beverages further highlights manufacturing vulnerabilities. Ultimately, consumers must look past the health halo and consider the high caffeine levels and controversies before incorporating Celsius into their daily routine. Transparency and a focus on wellness should go hand-in-hand, but recent events suggest that is not always the case with this brand.
For more information on the class action settlement regarding false advertising, you can refer to the USA Today article covering the payout details.
