The Definitive Answer: Yes, Surfside Contains Caffeine
For those wondering, the answer is a straightforward yes: Surfside Hard Tea does contain caffeine. The brand, an offshoot of Stateside Vodka, is known for using real brewed tea in its products, and it is this tea that is the source of the natural caffeine content. This detail is important for anyone monitoring their caffeine intake, especially since the presence of alcohol can interact with the effects of caffeine, potentially masking the depressant qualities of the alcohol. The amount of caffeine can vary slightly depending on the specific flavor, but popular varieties like the Iced Tea + Vodka and Raspberry Tea have been confirmed to contain approximately 34mg and 30mg per 12oz can, respectively.
Where Does the Caffeine in Surfside Come From?
Unlike some competitors that may use a malt-based formula, Surfside distinguishes itself by combining premium Stateside Vodka with real brewed iced tea. This means the caffeine is not an added ingredient but is a naturally occurring component of the tea leaves used in the brewing process. The specific type of tea and brewing method will influence the final caffeine levels, similar to how a regular cup of black or green tea's caffeine can vary.
Caffeine Comparison: How Surfside Stacks Up
To put Surfside's caffeine content into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with other common beverages. At approximately 34mg per 12oz serving, a can of Surfside contains significantly less caffeine than a standard 8oz cup of coffee, which can contain around 95-100mg. It's more comparable to a cup of green tea or a can of soda.
Here's a comparison table to illustrate the difference:
| Beverage | Serving Size | Approximate Caffeine Content |
|---|---|---|
| Surfside Hard Tea | 12 oz can | ~30-34 mg |
| Twisted Tea | 12 oz can | ~30 mg |
| Lipton Hard Iced Tea | 12 oz can | ~20-25 mg |
| Standard Black Tea | 8 oz cup | ~47 mg |
| Standard Brewed Coffee | 8 oz cup | ~95 mg |
| Coca-Cola | 12 oz can | ~34 mg |
The Risks of Mixing Caffeine and Alcohol
The combination of caffeine and alcohol is not a new concept, but it's one that carries specific risks. Caffeine is a stimulant that can mask the depressant effects of alcohol, potentially leading someone to feel less impaired than they truly are. This can lead to drinking more alcohol than intended and increase the risk of alcohol-related harm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have cautioned against this practice, emphasizing that while caffeine may make a person feel more alert, it does not reduce their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or improve coordination.
Understanding the Surfside Ingredient List
Surfside Hard Tea's ingredients are fairly simple and straightforward, highlighting its focus on a cleaner ready-to-drink cocktail. Beyond the Stateside Vodka and real brewed tea, the ingredients typically include natural flavors and an artificial sweetener. The low sugar and calorie count are often highlighted as a feature of the drink, making it appealing to health-conscious consumers. However, the presence of caffeine remains a key detail to remember, especially when planning consumption.
Who Makes Surfside Hard Tea?
Surfside is a product of Stateside Brands, a company that also produces Stateside Vodka. The brand was founded in 2022 by two sets of brothers in Philadelphia, inspired by a desire to create a non-carbonated, vodka-based canned cocktail using real ingredients. Their use of real brewed tea in Surfside sets it apart from many malt-based competitors in the hard tea and ready-to-drink market.
Conclusion
In summary, Surfside Hard Tea does contain a small to moderate amount of caffeine, naturally derived from the real brewed tea used in its production. The amount, typically around 30-34mg per can, is significantly less than a cup of coffee but comparable to many sodas. Consumers should be aware of this to make informed choices, particularly regarding the health implications of mixing alcohol with stimulants. As a beverage that prides itself on using quality ingredients, understanding its full composition, including the natural caffeine, is key for responsible enjoyment.
