Are Bloom energy drinks healthier than Red Bull?

January 7, 2026 •

4 min read

While Bloom energy drinks are heavily marketed as a healthier alternative, containing natural caffeine and prebiotics, a standard 8.4 oz can of Red Bull actually has less caffeine than a 12 oz can of Bloom. So, are Bloom energy drinks healthier than Red Bull when you look beyond the marketing?

Quick Summary

This article provides a nutritional comparison of Bloom and Red Bull energy drinks, detailing differences in caffeine source and content, sugar and artificial sweeteners, and functional ingredients. It helps consumers understand the health trade-offs and decide which option best fits their lifestyle and wellness goals.

Key Points

Caffeine Source: Bloom uses natural caffeine from green coffee beans for sustained energy, while Red Bull uses synthetic caffeine for a rapid spike and crash.
Zero Sugar vs. High Sugar: Bloom is a zero-sugar, low-calorie option, whereas a standard Red Bull is high in sugar, though sugar-free versions are available.
Added Nutrients: Bloom includes wellness-focused additions like prebiotics and L-theanine, promoting digestive health and focus, while Red Bull primarily relies on taurine and B-vitamins.
Ingredient Scrutiny: Despite its healthier image, some health concerns exist regarding Bloom's use of artificial sweeteners and processed ingredients.
Energy Profile: Consumers report Bloom provides a smoother energy boost without the jitters, while Red Bull delivers a quick, intense kick.
Moderation is Key: Neither drink is a substitute for a healthy diet and proper rest, and both should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Healthier Option: Given its nutritional profile, Bloom is generally considered the healthier option, especially for those seeking to cut down on sugar intake.

Nutritional Breakdown: Bloom vs. Red Bull

When evaluating any energy drink, the ingredients and nutritional content are the most important factors. A closer look reveals significant differences between Bloom's wellness-focused formula and Red Bull's classic blend.

Caffeine Content and Source

Bloom energy drinks contain 180mg of natural caffeine per 12 oz can, which is sourced from green coffee bean extract. Natural caffeine is absorbed more slowly by the body, leading to a smoother, more sustained energy boost without the jittery side effects and crash often associated with synthetic sources.

Conversely, a standard 8.4 oz can of Red Bull contains 80mg of synthetic caffeine. While a 12 oz Red Bull (114mg) has less caffeine than a 12 oz Bloom, the source is key. Synthetic caffeine is absorbed quickly, causing a rapid energy spike followed by a pronounced crash as the effects wear off.

Sugar and Sweeteners

This is one of the most stark contrasts between the two brands. Classic Red Bull is notoriously high in sugar, with a standard 8.4 oz can containing 27g of sugar and 110 calories. This high dose of simple sugars provides a quick rush of energy but is ultimately linked to weight gain, blood sugar spikes, and energy crashes. Red Bull also offers sugar-free and zero-calorie versions, which use artificial sweeteners.

Bloom's sparkling energy drinks are zero sugar and low-calorie (around 10 calories per can), using sweeteners like sucralose and monk fruit extract. While this avoids the negative effects of sugar, some health experts raise concerns about the long-term impact of artificial sweeteners on gut health and metabolism.

Functional Ingredients and Additives

Beyond caffeine and sugar, the formulations differ significantly in their added functional ingredients.

Bloom's unique additions include:

Prebiotic fiber: Supports digestive health and a healthy gut microbiome.
L-theanine: An amino acid that works with caffeine to promote mental focus and a sense of calm, reducing jitters.
Asian ginseng: An adaptogen used to support energy and stress management.
Green tea and lychee extracts: Believed to support metabolism and provide antioxidant benefits.
Apple cider vinegar: Often included for potential metabolic support.

Red Bull's formula includes:

Taurine: An amino acid naturally occurring in the body, found in many energy drinks.
B-group vitamins: B3, B6, B12, and B5 are included to contribute to energy-yielding metabolism.
Inositol: A sugar-like molecule often included in energy drinks.

Comparison Table: Bloom Energy vs. Red Bull (Standard Can)


Feature	Bloom Sparkling Energy (12 fl oz)	Red Bull Energy Drink (8.4 fl oz)
Caffeine (per can)	180mg (Natural from Green Coffee Bean)	80mg (Synthetic)
Sugar Content	0g (Zero Sugar)	27g (High Sugar)
Calories	Approx. 10	110
Sweeteners	Sucralose, Monk Fruit Extract	Sucrose, Glucose (for standard)
Key Functional Additives	Prebiotic Fiber, L-Theanine, Ginseng	Taurine, B-Vitamins, Inositol
Energy Profile	Smooth, sustained energy boost	Rapid spike and potential crash
Primary Health Focus	Digestive health, mood, focus	Immediate energy and stimulation

Potential Health Concerns: A Deeper Look

Choosing a healthier energy drink is not as simple as checking the sugar content. While Red Bull's high sugar intake is a significant concern, Bloom's use of artificial sweeteners also warrants consideration. Some health experts suggest that relying on sweeteners like sucralose may still affect gut health or condition a preference for sweet foods. Furthermore, Bloom's use of a proprietary blend in some products can make it difficult to determine the exact potency of its functional ingredients. The best choice for sustained energy is often a nutrient-dense whole-food diet.

Making Your Choice: Which Drink is Right for You?

Your energy drink choice depends on your personal health goals and lifestyle. If you're looking for an immediate, powerful energy kick and aren't concerned about sugar, Red Bull provides that. However, if you are actively avoiding sugar and prefer a smoother, more sustained energy boost with added wellness benefits like digestive support, Bloom is likely the better choice. Neither should be seen as a replacement for proper sleep and nutrition, but as an occasional supplement to your diet. Consider experimenting with natural energy sources, such as green tea or coffee, before turning to processed drinks regularly.

Conclusion

In the debate of "Are Bloom energy drinks healthier than Red Bull?", Bloom has a stronger claim due to its zero-sugar content, lower calories, and inclusion of beneficial ingredients like prebiotics and L-theanine. Its natural caffeine source offers a more balanced energy lift, contrasting sharply with the sugar-fueled spike and crash from a classic Red Bull. However, it is crucial to recognize that Bloom still uses artificial sweeteners and is a highly processed product, which means it isn't without its own set of health considerations. For health-conscious consumers seeking to minimize sugar, Bloom is a preferable option, but moderation remains key for any energy drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Bloom energy drinks are formulated to be zero-sugar and low-calorie, using alternative sweeteners like sucralose and monk fruit extract instead.

A 12 oz can of Bloom contains 180mg of natural caffeine, which is more than the 80mg of synthetic caffeine found in a standard 8.4 oz can of Red Bull.

Bloom uses natural caffeine derived from green coffee bean extract, which is known for providing a smoother, more sustained energy boost.

Some health experts express concern over the use of artificial sweeteners like sucralose in Bloom, suggesting it may affect gut health over time, despite the absence of sugar.

Red Bull's high sugar content can lead to blood sugar spikes, energy crashes, and weight gain. Its high caffeine levels can also cause jitters, increased heart rate, and sleep disruption.

Prebiotics are included in Bloom energy drinks to support digestive health and nourish beneficial gut bacteria, contributing to overall wellness.

Bloom is better for a sustained energy boost because its natural caffeine is absorbed more slowly, providing a smoother and longer-lasting effect compared to Red Bull's rapid synthetic caffeine spike.