How much caffeine is in a Slate? A Comprehensive Guide

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the brand's own information, each can of Slate's high-protein iced coffee contains 175mg of caffeine. This places the beverage firmly in the high-caffeine category, offering a significant boost that can be compared to drinking a double espresso.

Quick Summary

This article details the caffeine content of Slate Milk's high-protein iced coffee, explaining that each 11 fl oz can contains 175mg of caffeine. It compares this amount to other common coffee beverages and discusses factors influencing caffeine levels.

Key Points

Caffeine Amount: A single 11 fl oz can of Slate high-protein iced coffee contains 175mg of natural caffeine.
Comparison: This caffeine content is equivalent to about two standard cups of brewed coffee, providing a substantial energy boost.
Source of Caffeine: The caffeine in Slate comes naturally from brewed coffee, not synthetic additives.
High-Protein Content: Alongside the caffeine, each can offers 20g of protein, 1g of sugar, and is lactose-free.
Production Method: Slate uses ultra-filtered milk to achieve its high-protein, low-sugar profile.
Health Considerations: Individuals sensitive to caffeine should be mindful of the high dosage to avoid potential side effects like jitters.

Unpacking the Caffeine Content of Slate High-Protein Iced Coffee

Slate Milk has gained popularity for its high-protein, low-sugar iced coffee and chocolate milk products. For many consumers, especially those with an active lifestyle or who need a midday energy lift, the caffeine content is a key factor. An 11 fl oz can of any caffeinated Slate flavor, such as the Mocha Latte or Vanilla Latte, contains a robust 175mg of natural caffeine. The company explicitly markets this as the equivalent of two cups of standard coffee, offering a substantial energizing kick.

What Gives Slate Its Caffeine Kick?

The caffeine in Slate iced coffee comes from brewed coffee. The production process involves combining this coffee with ultra-filtered skim milk, which is a key differentiator for the brand. Ultrafiltration removes most of the lactose sugar while concentrating the milk's protein content. This process allows Slate to deliver a high-protein, low-sugar product without the need for added protein powders or excessive sweeteners. The natural caffeine from the coffee is preserved throughout this process, ensuring a consistent energy boost in every can.

How Slate's Caffeine Compares to Other Drinks

To put Slate's 175mg of caffeine into perspective, it's helpful to compare it with the content of other popular beverages. While a standard 8 oz cup of brewed coffee contains approximately 95mg of caffeine, a can of Slate packs almost double that amount. A double shot of espresso, often around 150mg of caffeine, is also slightly less potent than a can of Slate. However, some extra-large energy drinks can contain even more. The advantage of Slate is that it combines this significant caffeine boost with 20g of protein and low sugar, offering a more balanced nutritional profile than many traditional energy drinks.

Caffeine Comparison Table


Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Caffeine Content
Slate Iced Coffee	11 fl oz can	175mg
Brewed Coffee	8 fl oz cup	~95mg
Espresso	1 fl oz shot	~75mg
Double Espresso	2 fl oz shot	~150mg
Typical Energy Drink	16 fl oz can	~160mg (Varies)
Green Tea	8 fl oz cup	~28mg

Potential Side Effects of High Caffeine Intake

While 175mg of caffeine is perfectly safe for most healthy adults, individuals who are sensitive to caffeine should be aware of the potential effects. Consuming high amounts of caffeine can lead to jitters, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends a daily limit of 400mg of caffeine, so a single can of Slate falls well within that guideline. However, combining it with other caffeinated products throughout the day could lead to exceeding this limit. It is always wise to monitor your intake, especially if you are sensitive to its stimulating effects.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Coffee Boost

So, how much caffeine is in a Slate? Each can provides a powerful 175mg dose, positioning it as a highly effective energy source that rivals a double espresso. Beyond its caffeine content, Slate distinguishes itself by offering a significant amount of protein (20g) with minimal sugar, making it an appealing option for those who prioritize both function and nutrition in their beverages. Whether you're looking for a post-workout drink, a breakfast replacement, or a midafternoon pick-me-up, Slate provides a strong, clean energy boost in a convenient, all-natural, and shelf-stable format.

How to Enjoy Your Slate

Slate iced coffee is best enjoyed chilled, and a gentle shake is recommended before opening. It is a versatile beverage that can be consumed on its own or used as a base in various recipes, such as smoothies, for an added kick of caffeine and protein. The convenience and robust nutritional profile make it a standout choice in the growing market of functional coffee beverages.

List of Slate Iced Coffee Flavors

Mocha Latte: A chocolatey and rich flavor, perfect for those who love the classic combination of coffee and cocoa.
Vanilla Latte: Offers a smooth and creamy taste with a delicious vanilla flavor.
Caramel Latte: A sweet and indulgent option for caramel enthusiasts.
Unsweetened Cold Brew: For those who prefer a bold, straightforward coffee taste without any sugar.

For more detailed information on caffeine consumption guidelines and its effects on the body, consider visiting the FDA website.

How Slate Is Different: The Ultrafiltration Process

Slate's unique production method, ultrafiltration, is what sets it apart from many other coffee drinks. By removing lactose and concentrating protein, the company creates a high-quality, lactose-free product. This process is particularly beneficial for those who are lactose intolerant but still want to enjoy a rich, coffee-flavored protein drink. The use of natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit further enhances its health-conscious profile by keeping added sugar content at zero.

Frequently Asked Questions

175mg of caffeine is a significant amount, roughly equivalent to two cups of brewed coffee. For most healthy adults, it is a moderate to high dose, but for those sensitive to caffeine, it could cause side effects like jitters.

Slate coffee is made from brewed coffee and ultra-filtered skim milk. It also contains natural flavors, natural caffeine, and natural sweeteners like stevia and monk fruit, with no added protein powder.

Ultrafiltration is a process used to filter out lactose sugars from milk while concentrating its natural protein content. This results in a lactose-free, high-protein, low-sugar product without the need for added ingredients.

Yes, Slate high-protein iced coffee is keto-friendly. The product is low in net carbs and contains only 1g of sugar, fitting within most ketogenic diet guidelines.

Yes, Slate iced coffee is completely lactose-free. The ultrafiltration process removes the lactose, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

For the best taste, it is recommended to enjoy Slate iced coffee chilled. The cans are also shelf-stable, so they can be stored at room temperature before being cooled for consumption.

Yes, while the iced coffee varieties contain caffeine, Slate also offers a line of high-protein chocolate milks that are non-caffeinated, providing a protein boost without the energy kick.

Slate combines the benefits of both a protein shake and an iced coffee. With 20g of muscle-building protein, it can serve as a protein-rich beverage, a breakfast substitute, or a post-workout drink.