How Many Tablespoons of Sugar Are in Prime Drinks?

December 14, 2025 •

2 min read

While the original Prime Hydration drink contains a very small amount of naturally occurring sugar, its Energy counterpart boasts zero grams. This article answers the question of how many tablespoons of sugar are in Prime, exploring the specific formulas for both popular beverages.

Quick Summary

Prime Hydration contains less than one-fifth of a tablespoon of natural sugar, while Prime Energy has no sugar. Both are sweetened with sucralose and other artificial sweeteners.

Key Points

Prime Hydration Sugar: Contains approximately 0.16 tablespoons (2g) of natural sugar per 16.9 fl oz bottle, derived from coconut water.
Prime Energy Sugar: Contains 0 tablespoons (0g) of total sugar per 12 fl oz can.
No Added Sugar: Both Prime varieties contain no added sugar, relying on artificial sweeteners for flavor.
Artificial Sweeteners: The sweet taste is provided by non-caloric sweeteners such as sucralose and acesulfame potassium.
Label Interpretation: Consumers should look for "added sugar" on the nutrition facts panel, where Prime products list zero.
Caffeine Difference: The key distinction is caffeine, with Energy being caffeinated and Hydration being caffeine-free.
Intended Use: Hydration is for general replenishment, while Energy is a stimulant-based beverage for adults.

Dissecting the Sugar Content in Prime Beverages

The sugar content of Prime drinks depends on the product line: Prime Hydration or Prime Energy. Prime Hydration is designed as a sports drink for replenishment, while Prime Energy is a stimulant-based energy drink. Understanding this difference is key to determining their sugar content and making informed health choices.

The Sugar in Prime Hydration

A 16.9 fl oz (500ml) bottle of Prime Hydration contains 2 grams of total sugar, with zero grams of added sugar. This sugar is naturally present from the 10% coconut water concentrate used in the formula. Considering one tablespoon of sugar is roughly 12.5 grams, a bottle of Prime Hydration contains only about 0.16 tablespoons of sugar, a minimal amount. The sweetness comes primarily from artificial sweeteners like sucralose and acesulfame potassium, while the drink focuses on electrolytes, BCAAs, and vitamins.

The Sugar in Prime Energy

Prime Energy, in a 12 fl oz (355ml) can, contains zero grams of sugar and zero carbohydrates. It is a sugar-free energy drink sweetened mainly with sucralose. Energy is provided by 200mg of caffeine per can. This product is not recommended for children, pregnant women, or those sensitive to caffeine.

The Importance of Reading Nutrition Labels

Checking the nutrition facts panel is crucial for understanding any packaged drink. The American Heart Association advises distinguishing between "Total Sugars" and "Added Sugars". Prime products have zero added sugar, avoiding the empty calories of high-sugar drinks. While artificial sweeteners like sucralose provide non-caloric sweetness, their broader health effects are a subject of ongoing discussion.

A Comparative Look at Prime Varieties and Competitors

The table below compares the sugar content of Prime varieties with a typical sports drink:


Feature	Prime Hydration (16.9 fl oz)	Prime Energy (12 fl oz)	Traditional Sports Drink (e.g., Powerade)
Total Sugar	2g	0g	34g+
Added Sugar	0g	0g	34g+
Approx. Tablespoons of Sugar	~0.16	0	~2.7
Sweeteners	Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium	Sucralose, Acesulfame Potassium	High Fructose Corn Syrup, Sugar
Caffeine	0mg	200mg	0mg
Target Audience	All ages	Adults (18+)	Athletes, active individuals

Conclusion: The Bottom Line on Prime's Sugar Content

Prime drinks contain minimal to zero sugar. Prime Hydration has less than a quarter of a tablespoon of natural sugar from coconut water, while Prime Energy has no sugar. Both use artificial sweeteners for flavor, offering a low-calorie, zero-added-sugar option. Always check the label, especially noting the difference in caffeine content between Hydration and Energy. For more information on added sugar's health impact, the American Heart Association is a valuable resource.

Frequently Asked Questions

Prime Hydration has 2 grams of natural sugar from coconut water, whereas Prime Energy contains zero grams of sugar.

No, Prime Hydration contains zero grams of added sugar. The small amount of total sugar comes naturally from the coconut water ingredient.

The 2 grams of sugar in Prime Hydration is naturally present in the 10% coconut water concentrate used in the drink's formula.

Yes, Prime Energy is formulated to be sugar-free, containing zero grams of total sugar per can.

Both Prime Hydration and Prime Energy use artificial sweeteners, including sucralose and acesulfame potassium, to provide sweetness without calories.

One tablespoon of granulated sugar contains approximately 12.5 grams. This means the 2 grams of sugar in Prime Hydration is less than a quarter of a tablespoon.

While Prime Hydration's low-carb, zero-added-sugar profile may be a better option than high-sugar drinks, individuals with diabetes should exercise caution with Prime Energy due to its high caffeine content, which can affect blood sugar levels in some people. Consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended.

Prime Energy contains 200mg of caffeine per can and is not recommended for children, while Prime Hydration is caffeine-free and more suitable for general hydration.