Is Barq's root beer have caffeine in it? A look at nutrition and varieties

October 9, 2025 •

4 min read

Unlike most root beers sold in the United States, regular Barq's is one of the few that contains caffeine, with a 12-ounce can having approximately 22 milligrams. This intentional addition distinguishes it from other major brands, which are almost universally caffeine-free, and contributes to its trademarked 'bite'. For those monitoring their caffeine intake, understanding this key difference is essential when considering Is Barq's root beer have caffeine in it? as part of a balanced nutrition diet.

Quick Summary

Regular Barq's root beer is a notable exception among its peers by containing about 22 mg of added caffeine per 12-ounce can. Most other root beers, and Barq's diet and fountain versions, are caffeine-free. The caffeine content is significantly lower than coffee but should be considered by individuals with caffeine sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Key Points

Regular Barq's contains caffeine: Unlike most root beer brands, regular Barq's includes about 22 mg of added caffeine per 12-ounce can.
Diet and Zero Sugar options are caffeine-free: Barq's offers versions without caffeine for those seeking to avoid the stimulant.
Fountain machine versions are typically caffeine-free: Barq's dispensed from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines generally contains no caffeine.
Caffeine content is modest compared to coffee: The 22 mg in a 12oz Barq's is significantly less than the caffeine found in a typical cup of coffee.
Check labels for regional differences: Some areas, like Utah, sell caffeine-free versions of Barq's regular root beer, so it's always best to verify the label.
Manage sugary soda intake: Besides caffeine, regular Barq's contains high sugar, a factor to consider for overall nutritional health.

The Surprising Caffeinated Exception

Most people assume all root beer is caffeine-free, a misconception that can lead to confusion for those trying to manage their daily intake. The regular variety of Barq's root beer, however, is a notable outlier. With 22 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can, it stands apart from brands like A&W and Mug, which contain no caffeine at all. This characteristic is a deliberate part of the Barq's recipe, with the caffeine contributing to the soda's signature bold flavor, often described as having a unique 'bite'. For this reason, anyone with caffeine sensitivity, or simply looking to avoid the stimulant, must be mindful of this specific brand.

Breaking Down the Barq's Varieties

While the original formula contains caffeine, the company provides options for consumers with different dietary preferences and restrictions. Understanding the difference between each product is crucial for making an informed choice.

Regular Barq's Root Beer: Contains approximately 22 mg of added caffeine per 12-ounce serving, in addition to high fructose corn syrup and other flavors.
Diet Barq's Root Beer: This version is completely caffeine-free and uses artificial sweeteners instead of sugar.
Barq's from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines: In most regions, Barq's root beer dispensed from these self-serve machines is also caffeine-free.
Regional variations: It's worth noting that in some areas, such as Utah, Barq's root beer is specifically sold as a caffeine-free product due to local preferences. This highlights the importance of checking labels, as even the regular version can have regional differences.

How Barq's Stacks Up: A Caffeine Comparison

To put the caffeine content of Barq's into perspective, it helps to compare it with other popular caffeinated beverages. While 22 mg is not insignificant for a product mistakenly thought to be caffeine-free, it is relatively modest compared to coffee and some other sodas.


Beverage	Serving Size	Approximate Caffeine (mg)
Regular Barq's Root Beer	12 fl oz can	22
Typical Cola (e.g., Coca-Cola)	12 fl oz can	34
Diet Coke	12 fl oz can	46
Brewed Coffee	8 fl oz cup	95–200
Black Tea	8 fl oz cup	28–48

This comparison shows that a single can of regular Barq's has less than a cup of typical brewed coffee but still contains a significant amount of the stimulant. This can be important for individuals who need to limit their caffeine intake, for example, due to pregnancy, medication interactions, or a medical condition.

Nutritional Context and Dietary Implications

Beyond the question of caffeine, it is also important to consider Barq's within the broader context of a healthy diet. Like most sugary sodas, the regular version contains a high amount of sugar, typically in the form of high fructose corn syrup. Excessive sugar consumption is linked to various health concerns, including weight gain and a higher risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes. The diet or zero sugar versions, while free of caffeine and calories, utilize artificial sweeteners, which some individuals prefer to avoid for personal health reasons.

Tips for Managing Caffeine Intake

For those who enjoy root beer but are concerned about caffeine, there are several simple strategies to employ:

Always check the label: Even within the same brand, different varieties can have different caffeine content. The ingredient list will always state if caffeine is included.
Choose a caffeine-free brand: Many popular root beer brands, such as A&W, Mug, and Sprecher, are consistently caffeine-free.
Opt for diet or zero sugar versions: If you enjoy the Barq's flavor, switching to the Diet or Zero Sugar options ensures a caffeine-free experience.
Use fountain drinks with caution: While Barq's from Coca-Cola Freestyle machines is typically caffeine-free, you may not be able to verify this in all instances. It's often safer to stick to bottled or canned products with clear labeling.
Consider alternative beverages: For a warm, soothing drink, decaf herbal teas offer a caffeine-free option. When you're in the mood for a fizzy refreshment, you can also explore naturally caffeine-free options like some ginger ales.

A Final Word on Making Informed Choices

The fact that regular Barq's root beer contains caffeine makes it a unique product in the beverage aisle. For most consumers, the small amount of caffeine will have little effect. However, for those with sensitivities or who must strictly limit their intake, this knowledge is critical. The availability of caffeine-free alternatives within the Barq's lineup and from other brands means you don't have to sacrifice flavor for peace of mind. By making a conscious decision and checking product labels, you can align your beverage choices with your dietary needs, proving that even a simple soda can have a significant place in your nutrition plan.

For more information on the caffeine content of root beer and other common beverages, consult an authoritative source on nutrition, such as this article from Healthline. Healthline's article on root beer caffeine

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, regular Barq's root beer contains approximately 22 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce serving. This is a deliberate part of its formula, setting it apart from most other root beer brands.

Yes, both Diet Barq's and Barq's Zero Sugar are completely caffeine-free. These versions use artificial sweeteners instead of high fructose corn syrup.

A 12-ounce can of regular Barq's root beer contains about 22 milligrams of caffeine.

Barq's includes caffeine as part of its original and unique formula, which is promoted as giving the soda its distinct 'bite'. Most other root beers are made from naturally caffeine-free recipes.

No, Barq's from a Coca-Cola Freestyle machine is typically caffeine-free. The system uses a concentrated, caffeine-free base for both regular and diet versions.

Brands like A&W Root Beer, Mug Root Beer, Dad's Root Beer, and Sprecher Root Beer are all caffeine-free in their standard formulations.

No, the caffeine content in Barq's is much lower than coffee. A 12-ounce can of regular Barq's has 22 mg, while an 8-ounce cup of coffee can have 95 to 200 mg.