How many mg of caffeine are in a yerba mate energy drink?

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

A 15.5-ounce can of a major brand's yerba mate energy drink can contain up to 150 mg of caffeine, placing it on par with or slightly above a standard cup of brewed coffee. However, the exact amount of how many mg of caffeine are in a yerba mate energy drink varies significantly by brand, serving size, and even preparation method.

Quick Summary

Yerba mate energy drinks contain variable caffeine levels, typically ranging from 80 to 160 mg per can, depending on the brand and product line. The caffeine's effect is often perceived as a smoother, more sustained energy boost compared to coffee due to compounds like theobromine. Sweetened varieties may contain significant amounts of sugar, impacting the overall nutritional profile. Regular, heavy consumption may carry certain health risks.

Key Points

Caffeine Varies by Brand: A typical 15.5-ounce Guayakí yerba mate energy drink contains about 150 mg of caffeine, but different brands and sizes range from 80 mg to 160 mg per can.
Smoother Energy Boost: Yerba mate provides a more sustained, 'calm' energy and focus without the jitters often associated with coffee, due to the presence of theobromine and theophylline alongside caffeine.
Check for Added Sugar: While yerba mate itself is low-calorie, many commercial energy drinks are sweetened and can contain substantial amounts of added sugar, which should be considered in a healthy diet.
Contains Antioxidants: Yerba mate is rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, offering health benefits such as improved heart health and reduced inflammation.
Moderate Your Intake: Excessive, long-term consumption, especially of very hot mate, may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly for smokers or heavy drinkers.
Loose Leaf is Different: The caffeine content in loose-leaf yerba mate tea is typically lower per cup but can build up over a traditional, prolonged drinking session with multiple infusions.

Unpacking the Caffeine Content in Canned Yerba Mate

While traditional loose-leaf yerba mate can have highly variable caffeine levels depending on brewing time and method, pre-packaged energy drinks offer more predictable concentrations. For example, a 15.5-ounce can of Guayakí Yerba Mate typically contains 150 mg of caffeine. Some of their smaller cans, particularly sparkling varieties, may contain less, often around 80 mg to 120 mg. The Mateína brand, another popular producer, offers sparkling versions with around 80 mg of caffeine per can and non-sparkling alternatives with up to 130 mg. Babe Beverages markets a 16-ounce can with 150 mg of caffeine. Always checking the nutrition label on the specific can you're considering is the most reliable way to know the exact caffeine dosage. Factors like added ingredients, flavor, and can size all play a role in the final formulation, making it essential to read the details for accurate information.

Yerba Mate Energy Drinks vs. Loose-Leaf Tea

The amount of caffeine in a yerba mate energy drink differs greatly from a home-brewed cup of loose-leaf tea. The concentrated extraction process for commercial drinks generally results in a higher and more consistent caffeine dose than a simple teabag or gourd preparation. The caffeine content in loose-leaf infusions can range widely, with a typical 8-ounce cup averaging 30-50 mg when prepared from a teabag, or up to 80 mg with a traditional gourd. However, some traditionalists who repeatedly infuse the same leaves in a gourd can achieve much higher overall caffeine intake over a long session, potentially reaching up to 150-200 mg. This gradual sipping method is what many refer to as the smoother, sustained energy release associated with yerba mate.

The Unique Nature of Yerba Mate's Energy Boost

Beyond the caffeine quantity, a key difference between yerba mate and other stimulants is the experience of the energy boost. Many consumers report that yerba mate provides a clear, sustained focus without the jittery side effects or subsequent crash often associated with coffee or standard energy drinks. This is attributed to the synergistic effect of other compounds naturally present in the Ilex paraguariensis plant, which include theobromine and theophylline. Theobromine, also found in chocolate, is a milder stimulant with a longer-lasting effect, while theophylline is known for its relaxing properties on smooth muscles. This unique blend of xanthines modulates the body's absorption and reaction to the caffeine, resulting in a different kind of alertness.

Comparing Yerba Mate to Common Stimulants

To put the caffeine content of yerba mate energy drinks into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular beverages. It's important to remember that preparation methods and specific brands can cause significant variations.


Beverage	Typical Caffeine Content	Energy Effect	Additional Compounds	Added Sugar (Unsweetened/Sweetened)
Yerba Mate Energy Drink (15.5 oz)	120–150 mg	Smooth, sustained	Theobromine, Theophylline	0–34 g
Coffee (8 oz, brewed)	~95–140 mg	Quick jolt, potential crash	Trace amounts	Minimal/High
Black Tea (8 oz, brewed)	40–70 mg	Moderate, less intense	Theophylline	Minimal/High
Green Tea (8 oz, brewed)	20–45 mg	Mild, gentle	L-theanine	Minimal/High
Traditional Energy Drink (16 oz)	~160 mg	Intense spike, likely crash	Taurine, B-vitamins	Often very high

Nutritional and Health Considerations

Beyond the caffeine, the nutritional profile of yerba mate energy drinks varies. Unsweetened versions will contain minimal calories and sugar, while sweetened options can be very high in added sugar. For example, one brand's sweetened yerba mate can have over 30 grams of sugar, comparable to a sugary soda. Yerba mate naturally contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including polyphenols and saponins, which are linked to various health benefits like improved heart health and reduced inflammation. However, the high sugar content in many commercial energy drinks can undermine these benefits, and a nutritional diet should account for this. It is always best to choose unsweetened options or drink sweetened versions sparingly.

The Potential Downsides and Risks

While generally safe in moderation, excessive consumption of yerba mate can lead to side effects similar to too much coffee, such as nervousness, insomnia, headaches, and an upset stomach. Additionally, some studies suggest that heavy, long-term consumption of yerba mate, particularly when consumed very hot, may be linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as oral and esophageal cancer. This risk appears higher for individuals who also smoke or consume large amounts of alcohol. These risks are primarily associated with the hot temperatures at which it is traditionally consumed and the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). It is advisable to consume yerba mate at moderate temperatures and to limit intake, particularly if you have other risk factors.

Conclusion

In summary, the caffeine content in a ready-to-drink yerba mate energy drink can range from 80 to 160 mg, a significant amount that rivals or exceeds a typical cup of coffee. The precise level depends heavily on the specific brand, serving size, and whether it's a sparkling or non-sparkling variety. Unlike the quick spike and crash often associated with coffee, the combination of caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline in yerba mate provides a smoother, more sustained energy boost. Consumers should always check the label for exact caffeine content and added sugar levels, as these can vary drastically between products. For those sensitive to caffeine or trying to manage their sugar intake, choosing an unsweetened variety or moderating consumption is key. While yerba mate offers potential health benefits from antioxidants, it should be enjoyed mindfully and in moderation as part of a balanced diet. More information on balanced caffeine consumption and its effects can be found on resources like the Mayo Clinic's website.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have health concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

The caffeine in yerba mate provides a smoother, more sustained energy boost compared to the more intense jolt from coffee. This is because yerba mate also contains theobromine and theophylline, which modulate the effects of the caffeine.

Yerba mate energy drinks are often considered a more natural alternative, but it depends heavily on the specific product. Many are lower in sugar and contain beneficial antioxidants, but sweetened versions can have just as much sugar as traditional energy drinks.

Many people find that yerba mate does not cause the intense crash often experienced with coffee. The blend of stimulants provides a more gradual energy boost and less of a steep drop-off in alertness later on.

The caffeine content in Guayakí yerba mate varies by product. A 15.5-ounce can contains 150 mg of caffeine, while their 12-ounce sparkling cans have around 80 mg.

Some studies suggest yerba mate may help with weight loss by potentially reducing body fat and increasing fat oxidation during exercise. However, the effect is modest, and it should be combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

Yes, excessive or long-term heavy consumption of yerba mate, particularly when drinking it very hot, has been linked to a potentially higher risk of certain cancers. It also contains caffeine, which can cause side effects like headaches and jitters in sensitive individuals.

The caffeine content in homemade loose-leaf yerba mate can vary widely. An 8-ounce cup from a teabag might have 30-50 mg, while a traditional gourd infusion can deliver a total of 150-200 mg over multiple refills during a session.