Do Medium Dunkin' Refreshers Have Caffeine?
Yes, every medium Dunkin' Refresher contains approximately 99 milligrams of caffeine. This caffeine content stems from the green tea extract that is pre-mixed into the flavored fruit concentrate used to make the drink. This is a crucial detail, as it means the caffeine is present in the core ingredients and cannot be removed simply by swapping the liquid base. Unlike a traditional iced tea where the tea itself is the source of caffeine and can be replaced, the Refresher's caffeine is in the concentrate itself. This makes it impossible to order a completely caffeine-free Refresher.
The Source of Caffeine in Dunkin' Refreshers
For many, the vibrant, fruity appearance of a Refresher might not suggest caffeine. However, the energy boost comes from a specific ingredient. The flavored base that is pumped into the cup—which defines the drink's taste, such as Strawberry Dragonfruit or Mango Pineapple—is made with green tea extract. Even when a customer requests a Refresher to be made with lemonade or water instead of green tea, the drink's concentrated flavor base already contains the caffeine, resulting in a caffeinated beverage regardless of the mix-in.
Caffeine Content by Refresher Size
Dunkin' offers Refreshers in three sizes, and the caffeine content scales accordingly:
- Small (16 oz.): Approximately 66mg of caffeine
- Medium (24 oz.): Approximately 99mg of caffeine
- Large (32 oz.): Approximately 132mg of caffeine
It is important to note that the exact amount can vary slightly depending on the specific flavor and the base liquid used. For instance, a Refresher made with green tea as the base will typically have a higher caffeine content than one made with lemonade, as the green tea itself contributes additional caffeine on top of the green tea extract in the concentrate. For those who are highly sensitive to caffeine, even the reduced amount from a lemonade-based Refresher might be noticeable.
Refresher vs. Other Dunkin' Drinks: A Caffeine Comparison
To put the 99mg of caffeine in a medium Refresher into perspective, it's helpful to compare it to other popular Dunkin' beverages. This table shows how a medium Refresher stacks up against other options in the Dunkin' lineup based on average caffeine content.
| Beverage | Medium Size | Approximate Caffeine (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Dunkin' Refresher | 24 oz. | 99 |
| Hot Coffee | 14 oz. | 210 |
| Iced Coffee | 24 oz. | 295 (for a large) |
| Dunkin' Energy | 24 oz. | 144 |
| Shot of Espresso | ~1.5 oz. | 63 |
| Green Tea (Iced) | 16 oz. (small) | ~66 |
As the table illustrates, a medium Refresher has significantly less caffeine than a regular hot or iced coffee of a similar size, but notably more than a standard single shot of espresso. This makes it a great choice for those seeking a more moderate energy lift than what a full coffee provides, without the intensity of a dedicated energy drink.
Finding a Truly Caffeine-Free Dunkin' Beverage
Since it is not possible to order a completely caffeine-free Refresher, customers seeking a zero-caffeine option should explore other parts of the Dunkin' menu. The following are a few alternatives:
- Coolattas: Flavors like Blue Raspberry and Strawberry are typically caffeine-free. However, be cautious with limited-time offerings, as ingredients can change.
- Hot Chocolate: Standard hot chocolate is generally caffeine-free, though some flavored versions or additions might contain a minimal amount.
- Herbal Teas: Chamomile or other herbal teas, when available, are a safe bet for a non-caffeinated option.
- Milk: A simple glass of milk is always a safe, caffeine-free choice.
The Final Word on Dunkin' Refresher Caffeine
In summary, if you're ordering a medium Dunkin' Refresher, you can expect a moderate caffeine boost of around 99mg. This caffeine comes from the green tea extract in the flavor concentrate, meaning that opting for lemonade or water instead of green tea only slightly reduces, but does not eliminate, the caffeine content. For those with caffeine sensitivities or those avoiding it altogether, looking into genuinely caffeine-free menu items like a Coolatta or herbal tea is the best course of action. For more information on Dunkin's offerings and nutritional details, you can visit the official Dunkin' website Refreshers | Made with Energy from Green Tea | Dunkin'®.
