Why Panera Discontinued Charged Lemonades
The move to pull Charged Lemonades from the menu was a direct response to a storm of controversy and legal challenges that began in late 2023. Initially launched as a key perk of the Unlimited Sip Club, the drinks were marketed as a plant-based energy alternative. However, the reality of their caffeine content proved far more potent and dangerous than advertised, leading to several high-profile lawsuits.
The lawsuits highlighted the fact that a large (30 oz) Charged Lemonade could contain up to 390 milligrams of caffeine, only 10 milligrams below the FDA's recommended daily limit for healthy adults. This was more caffeine than many traditional energy drinks, yet the drinks were initially available for unlimited self-serve refills alongside regular, non-caffeinated lemonades and teas.
The Impact of the Controversy
The negative publicity and mounting legal pressure made the product's continued sale untenable. The most notable lawsuits were filed by the families of two individuals who died after consuming the drinks, with their legal teams arguing that Panera failed to adequately warn customers about the high caffeine levels. In one case, a 21-year-old student with a heart condition mistook the "charged" label for electrolytes, similar to a sports drink. In another, a 46-year-old man with high blood pressure reportedly consumed multiple Charged Lemonades before a fatal cardiac event.
Facing legal and reputational risk, Panera took several steps before ultimately discontinuing the product:
- Added warning labels: Following the first lawsuit, enhanced caffeine disclosures were added to the drinks.
- Removed self-serve option: In early 2024, the drinks were moved behind the counter, away from the self-serve fountains.
- Phased out product: The company finally announced in May 2024 that the beverages would be removed nationwide.
Panera officially described the discontinuation as a "menu transformation," rather than publicly admitting that the lawsuits were the cause.
What Replaced Charged Lemonades?
Following the removal of the highly caffeinated drinks, Panera began testing a new lineup of beverages to fill the gap. In October 2025, Panera announced tests for two new beverage categories in select markets: Energy Refreshers and caffeine-free Frescas. Unlike the former self-serve model, these new drinks are made by baristas and contain significantly less caffeine.
Comparison of Old vs. New Panera Caffeinated Drinks
| Feature | Old Charged Lemonades | New Energy Refreshers (Test) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Discontinued in May 2024. | In test markets as of October 2025. |
| Serving Method | Unlimited self-serve refills initially, later moved behind counter. | Handcrafted by baristas; not unlimited refills. |
| Caffeine (Large) | Up to 390 mg (without ice). | Up to 44 mg (with ice). |
| Added Stimulants | Guarana extract. | None specified in new offerings. |
| Caffeine Source | Green coffee extract and guarana. | Unspecified (likely green coffee). |
| Controversy | At center of multiple wrongful death and injury lawsuits. | Introduced with significantly lower caffeine levels to address safety concerns. |
Panera's New Beverage Strategy
The introduction of the new Energy Refreshers and Frescas signifies a strategic shift away from controversial, high-caffeine products. The new options feature natural fruit infusions and provide a less intense energy boost, aligning with a more cautious and transparent approach to beverage offerings. The move to a barista-made model further eliminates the risk of customers unknowingly consuming excessive amounts of caffeine through unlimited self-serve refills.
This "menu transformation," as Panera calls it, seems to prioritize customer safety and clear communication regarding product ingredients. It aims to restore consumer trust and provide a healthier, more controlled beverage experience. For fans of the previous Charged Lemonades, the new options represent a significant change, but one that is rooted in a greater focus on consumer well-being.
Conclusion
Yes, Panera definitively discontinued its Charged Lemonades in May 2024 after facing intense scrutiny and multiple lawsuits related to the beverage's high caffeine content and inadequate safety warnings. The decision marks a significant turn for the company's beverage program, which has since pivoted to testing new, lower-caffeine and caffeine-free fruit-infused drinks. While the controversial beverage is no longer available, its removal serves as a stark reminder of the importance of clear ingredient transparency and consumer safety in the food and beverage industry.
Final Note
For more information on the history and details of the legal cases, the Center for Science in the Public Interest provides an in-depth analysis of the Panera Charged Lemonade story and its implications for consumer safety.
