Yes, Mountain Dew Supernova does contain caffeine
All major releases of Mountain Dew Supernova, including the original US version, the Canadian versions, and the European formulation (often called 'Euronova'), have contained caffeine. While the specific caffeine content can vary by region and format, it is a consistent ingredient in the Supernova recipe. This is important for consumers who need to be mindful of their caffeine consumption, as the perception that some limited-edition flavors might be caffeine-free can be misleading. The US version, for example, contained ginseng in addition to caffeine, which further contributed to its stimulating properties.
History of Mountain Dew Supernova and its Caffeine Content
Mountain Dew Supernova first burst onto the scene in 2008 during the inaugural 'DEWmocracy' campaign, a fan-voted flavor competition. The original US version was a strawberry-melon flavor with ginseng and contained caffeine comparable to other Mountain Dew products. Although it came in second place to Mountain Dew Voltage, its popularity led to several re-releases in different markets.
In 2011, a diet version of Supernova was introduced in the US as part of the 'FanDEWmonium' promotion. This version also included caffeine but notably did not contain ginseng. Despite winning the vote to become a permanent diet flavor, it was only available for a limited time.
Later, in 2012, a different raspberry-lemon flavor with caffeine was released under the Supernova name in Finland, followed by Denmark. This version is distinct in both flavor and caffeine content from its US counterpart.
Discontinued Status and Variations
Today, Mountain Dew Supernova is largely a discontinued flavor in most regions, particularly in the United States. This is why specific information about its caffeine content can be hard to find and confusing, as various versions have existed over time.
Reasons for Discontinuation and Limited Availability:
- Fan Vote Winner: The original flavor lost the 2008 DEWmocracy vote to Voltage and was therefore never intended to be a permanent addition to the US lineup.
- Limited Promotions: Subsequent re-releases, such as the 'Back by Popular DEWmand' event in 2011 and Canadian DEWmocracy promotions, were always for a limited time.
- Regional Differences: The European version, 'Euronova,' had a different flavor profile (raspberry-lemon) than the US version (strawberry-melon), and even that version was eventually discontinued in some areas like Denmark.
- Cult Classic Status: The beverage's limited availability has made it a sought-after collectible item, with old, unopened bottles sometimes appearing on auction sites like eBay.
Comparison Table: Caffeine Content Across Supernova Versions
| Feature | US Supernova (2008/2011) | Canadian Supernova (2013/2014) | European 'Euronova' (Finland) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor Profile | Strawberry-Melon with Ginseng | Strawberry-Melon with Ginseng | Raspberry-Lemon |
| Caffeine per 12 fl oz | Approx. 54 mg | Approx. 54 mg | Approx. 36 mg |
| Caffeine per 20 fl oz | Approx. 91 mg | Approx. 91 mg | Approx. 60 mg (based on calculation) |
| Sweetener | High Fructose Corn Syrup | Likely High Fructose Corn Syrup | Sugar |
| Current Status | Discontinued | Discontinued | Discontinued in some areas |
The Impact of Ginseng on the Original Supernova
One distinguishing factor of the US Mountain Dew Supernova, which is often forgotten, is the addition of ginseng root extract. Ginseng is a natural ingredient known for its potential to provide a mild energy boost and combat fatigue, complementing the effects of the caffeine. This gave the original Supernova a slightly different 'kick' compared to standard Mountain Dew flavors that rely solely on caffeine and sugar for their invigorating properties. The diet version of Supernova notably excluded ginseng, making its stimulant profile slightly different from the full-sugar version.
Conclusion
In summary, all versions of Mountain Dew Supernova, including the original US flavor, the Canadian releases, and the distinct European formulation, have contained caffeine. Its caffeine content was comparable to other Mountain Dew varieties, though specific amounts varied by bottle size and region. Since it is no longer widely available, historical data and fan wiki pages are the best source for details. For those looking for a modern equivalent, other Mountain Dew products or specialized energy drinks are now the primary options. The unique combination of caffeine and ginseng in the original formula cemented its legacy as a fan-favorite, despite its discontinued status. For more information on the full history of Mountain Dew flavors, visit the Mountain Dew Wiki.
