Does Mug Root Beer Have Calories? The Nutritional Breakdown

October 15, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the official nutritional information from Mug's manufacturer, a single 12 fl oz can of regular Mug Root Beer contains 160 calories, all derived from its 43 grams of sugar. The answer to does mug root beer have calories? is a definitive yes for the regular version, but the zero-sugar alternative offers a vastly different nutritional profile.

Quick Summary

An examination of the calorie content and ingredients of Mug Root Beer, differentiating between the regular, sugar-sweetened version and the calorie-free zero sugar alternative. It details the source of calories, discusses the use of artificial sweeteners, and offers nutritional context for both options.

Key Points

Regular Mug has 160 calories: A standard 12 fl oz can of Mug Root Beer contains 160 calories, primarily from 43 grams of sugar.
Zero Sugar Mug is calorie-free: The zero-sugar version, formerly Diet Mug, has 0 calories and is sweetened with artificial sweeteners.
High sugar content in regular soda: The high fructose corn syrup in regular Mug contributes to health risks like weight gain, tooth decay, and potential chronic diseases.
Artificial sweeteners have considerations: While calorie-free, artificial sweeteners in zero-sugar drinks have sparked debate about their long-term health effects and impact on gut health.
Both versions have similar sodium levels: Both regular and zero-sugar Mug Root Beer contain about 65-70mg of sodium per 12 oz serving.
Moderation is recommended: Neither version is a nutritional choice, and both should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet that prioritizes water.
Dental health risk remains with diet soda: While zero-sugar soda is better for avoiding cavities, its acidity can still contribute to enamel erosion over time.

The Calorie Content of Regular Mug Root Beer

For those who enjoy the classic taste, regular Mug Root Beer is not a calorie-free beverage. A standard 12 fl oz (360 mL) can contains 160 calories. The primary source of these calories is the high fructose corn syrup, which also provides a significant amount of sugar. A single can packs an impressive 43 grams of added sugar, representing 86% of the daily recommended value based on a 2,000-calorie diet. When considering larger sizes, the calorie and sugar counts increase proportionally. For instance, a 20 fl oz bottle contains around 260 calories and 71 grams of added sugar, far exceeding the daily limit. Regular consumption of sugary beverages like this can contribute to weight gain, dental issues like tooth decay, and blood sugar spikes.

The Role of High Fructose Corn Syrup

High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is the primary sweetener in regular Mug Root Beer. This is a common and inexpensive ingredient used in many soft drinks to provide sweetness. While the calories from HFCS are the same as table sugar, excessive intake can lead to various health concerns. Studies have linked high sugar consumption to an increased risk of health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

Mug Zero Sugar: The Calorie-Free Alternative

For those watching their calorie and sugar intake, Mug also offers a zero-sugar option, previously marketed as Diet Mug. This version contains 0 calories and 0 grams of sugar per 12 fl oz can. The sweetness in this beverage comes from a blend of artificial sweeteners, which allows it to maintain a taste profile similar to the original without the caloric load. The key ingredients in the zero-sugar variety include:

Carbonated Water: The base of the beverage.
Caramel Color: Provides the characteristic brown color.
Sodium Benzoate: Preserves freshness.
Aspartame and Acesulfame Potassium: Artificial sweeteners that provide sweetness without calories.
Natural and Artificial Flavors: Recreate the distinct root beer taste.

Considerations for Artificial Sweeteners

While artificial sweeteners provide a way to enjoy a sweet drink without calories, they are not without debate. Some research has raised questions about their long-term health effects, though they are generally considered safe for consumption within recommended limits. Concerns include potential effects on gut microbiota and the possibility of conditioning the palate to crave sweeter foods. For individuals with a specific condition called phenylketonuria (PKU), the aspartame in diet sodas is a significant health concern.

Regular vs. Zero Sugar Mug Root Beer: A Nutritional Comparison

The table below outlines the key differences in nutritional content for the two main versions of Mug Root Beer, based on a standard 12 fl oz serving. This can help consumers make a more informed choice based on their dietary goals.


Feature	Regular Mug Root Beer	Mug Zero Sugar Root Beer
Calories	160	0
Total Sugars	43g (43g added)	0g
Sweeteners	High Fructose Corn Syrup	Aspartame, Acesulfame Potassium
Sodium	~65-70mg	~65-70mg
Primary Health Concern	High sugar intake, weight gain, dental issues	Potential effects of artificial sweeteners, digestive issues
Dental Health Impact	High risk of cavities and tooth decay	Acidity may still cause enamel erosion

The Impact of Beverage Choice on Your Diet

Choosing a beverage is a crucial part of a nutritional diet, as the calories and sugar in drinks can significantly contribute to overall intake without providing substantial nutritional value. Opting for the Zero Sugar version of Mug can help reduce calorie intake for weight management and assist with blood sugar regulation for those with diabetes. However, as with any packaged beverage, moderation is key. A balanced diet should prioritize water and other unsweetened drinks.

For those who enjoy the flavor of root beer but want to avoid the health concerns associated with both high sugar and artificial sweeteners, exploring alternatives or limiting intake is recommended. Beverages like sparkling water with natural fruit essences, herbal teas, or homemade low-sugar drinks offer a healthier approach to quenching thirst and satisfying flavor cravings.

Conclusion: Weighing Your Options for a Balanced Diet

In summary, the answer to does mug root beer have calories? depends entirely on the product version. The regular version is high in calories and sugar, making it an occasional treat rather than a daily staple for a healthy diet. The zero-sugar version eliminates calories and sugar but introduces artificial sweeteners with their own set of potential considerations. By understanding the nutritional differences and the ingredients in each, consumers can make informed decisions that align with their overall health and wellness goals. Always consider the full nutritional picture, not just the calorie count, when choosing your beverages.

For more information on the safety of artificial sweeteners and diet drinks, the Environmental Working Group provides detailed food scores for various products.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Mug Root Beer Zero Sugar contains 0 calories per 12 fl oz can, as it is sweetened with artificial sweeteners instead of sugar.

A regular 12 fl oz can of Mug Root Beer contains 160 calories, with all the calories coming from the 43 grams of sugar.

Regular Mug Root Beer is sweetened with High Fructose Corn Syrup, which is the source of its high calorie and sugar content.

Mug Root Beer Zero Sugar is lower in calories and sugar, which can be beneficial for weight management and blood sugar control. However, it is not a health drink and contains artificial sweeteners, which have their own considerations.

No, Mug Root Beer is a caffeine-free beverage across both its regular and zero-sugar varieties.

Yes, some individuals may experience digestive issues like gas, bloating, or diarrhea from the artificial sweeteners or carbonation in diet or zero-sugar root beer.

Healthier alternatives include water, sparkling water flavored with natural fruit extracts, or herbal tea. These options offer hydration without the calories, sugar, or artificial sweeteners found in sodas.