Yes, Starbucks Doubleshot Energy is highly caffeinated
Contrary to any confusion over the name or product line changes, Starbucks Doubleshot Energy is unequivocally a caffeinated product. The drink is a blend of rich Starbucks coffee and milk, fortified with other energizing ingredients, which all contribute to its high caffeine content. The standard 15-ounce can contains approximately 135 mg of caffeine, making it a significant stimulant.
More than just coffee
What makes the Doubleshot Energy different from a standard coffee beverage is the inclusion of additional energy-boosting ingredients. The caffeine is not solely derived from coffee. The formula is enhanced with natural sources like guarana and ginseng, along with B vitamins and taurine. Guarana, in particular, is noted for containing about twice the caffeine of coffee beans, adding a substantial kick to the beverage. This combination of stimulants creates a more pronounced and rapid energy effect than coffee alone might provide.
Unpacking the Doubleshot name and recent changes
Confusion over the status of Starbucks Doubleshot Energy is understandable, given the brand's many product lines and recent updates. While some in-store beverages with a similar name, like the Doubleshot on Ice, were renamed (to Iced Shaken Espresso) in early 2021, the canned Doubleshot Energy has not been discontinued. Instead, the ready-to-drink product line underwent a packaging refresh in early 2024, confirming its continued availability. This update included a sleek, new can design for the full range of flavors.
The Doubleshot family
It's important to distinguish between the different Doubleshot products offered by Starbucks, as they have different caffeine levels and compositions:
- Doubleshot Energy (Canned): A premium energy drink blending coffee with guarana, ginseng, and B vitamins. A 15 oz can typically contains 135 mg of caffeine.
- Doubleshot Espresso (Canned): A smaller, concentrated drink made with espresso, milk, sugar, and cream. A 6.5 oz can contains around 120 mg of caffeine.
- Doubleshot on Ice (in-store): Now called the Iced Shaken Espresso, this handcrafted drink can have significantly more caffeine depending on the size. A Grande, for example, contains 225 mg of caffeine.
- Hot Double Shot Espresso (in-store): A straight double shot of espresso contains about 150 mg of caffeine.
A comparison of Starbucks doubleshot products
| Feature | Doubleshot Energy (15 oz can) | Doubleshot Espresso (6.5 oz can) | In-Store Double Shot (Grande) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caffeine | ~135 mg | ~120 mg | ~225 mg |
| Energy Ingredients | Guarana, Ginseng, B Vitamins, Taurine | None Added | None Added (just espresso) |
| Form | Ready-to-drink can | Ready-to-drink can | Handcrafted in-store |
| Availability | Grocery and convenience stores | Grocery and convenience stores | Starbucks cafés |
Flavors available
Alongside its continued availability, the Doubleshot Energy line offers a variety of flavors to suit different preferences. As of its 2024 packaging refresh, the ready-to-drink options include:
- Caramel
- Coffee
- Mocha
- Vanilla
- White Chocolate
Potential health considerations
While the caffeine content in a single can is well within the 400 mg daily limit recommended for most healthy adults by the FDA, it is not suitable for everyone. Its high stimulant content should be considered by individuals with caffeine sensitivity, anxiety disorders, or heart conditions. The European Food Safety Authority also provides guidelines on safe daily caffeine intake. Due to the stimulant load, it is not recommended for children or pregnant and nursing women. In general, moderation is key when consuming any highly caffeinated product.
Conclusion
In summary, Starbucks Doubleshot Energy is very much a caffeinated product, containing around 135 mg of caffeine per 15 oz can from both coffee and added guarana. It is not a discontinued product but was refreshed with new packaging in 2024, providing a consistent ready-to-drink option. Its stimulant properties are amplified by the inclusion of ginseng and guarana. Consumers should be mindful of its caffeine and sugar content, particularly when comparing it to other Starbucks beverages, some of which contain significantly different caffeine amounts under similar-sounding names.
