What was Mountain Dew Energy?
Mountain Dew Energy, originally named Mountain Dew Rise, was an energy drink product line introduced by PepsiCo in January 2021. It was designed as a high-caffeine beverage intended to provide a significant energy boost, setting it apart from standard soft drinks. The product line was discontinued in January 2024.
History of Mountain Dew's Energy Products
PepsiCo has a history in the energy drink market, with previous products like Mountain Dew AMP. Mountain Dew Energy (and its initial branding, Rise) was a dedicated effort to create a high-caffeine beverage. The name was changed to Mountain Dew Energy in November 2021 due to a trademark dispute. The line included various flavors before being discontinued.
Key Ingredients and Function
The formulation of Mountain Dew Energy determined its classification as an energy drink. Unlike standard sodas, it included functional ingredients.
Key ingredients included:
- Caffeine: 180mg per 16 fl oz can, comparable to many leading energy drinks.
- Citicoline: A compound linked to improved attention and mental focus when combined with caffeine.
- Zinc: An essential mineral for immune support.
- Vitamins A and C: Included as antioxidants.
- B Vitamins: Present in older Mountain Dew energy products like Kickstart, but the Mountain Dew Energy line had a different vitamin profile.
The drink contained zero grams of added sugar, using artificial sweeteners instead. This contrasted significantly with the high sugar content in regular Mountain Dew.
Mountain Dew Energy vs. Regular Mountain Dew vs. Energy Drinks
Comparing Mountain Dew Energy to regular Mountain Dew and other energy drinks highlights its distinct nature.
| Feature | Mountain Dew Energy (16 fl oz) | Regular Mountain Dew (12 fl oz) | Standard Energy Drink (e.g., Monster, 16 fl oz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caffeine Content | 180mg | ~54mg | ~160mg |
| Added Sugar | 0g | ~46g | High, typically 50+g |
| Key Functional Ingredients | Caffeine, Citicoline, Zinc, Vitamins A&C | None (contains standard ingredients for soda) | Caffeine, Taurine, B-vitamins, L-carnitine, etc. |
| Primary Purpose | Energy boost, mental focus, immune support | Refreshment, taste | Energy boost, alertness |
This comparison shows that Mountain Dew Energy was formulated as an energy drink, featuring a higher caffeine dose and functional ingredients absent in regular Mountain Dew.
The Verdict: Mountain Dew Energy is an Energy Drink
Based on its composition and intent, Mountain Dew Energy was unequivocally an energy drink. Its ingredients, including 180mg of caffeine, Citicoline, zinc, and vitamins, align with the definition of a functional energy beverage. Its purpose was to provide stimulation and boost performance, differing from a soda's aim for refreshment. The product was a strategic move by PepsiCo into the energy drink market and replaced some of the Kickstart lineup.
A Concluding Thought on Discontinuation
Despite its formulation as an energy drink, Mountain Dew Energy was discontinued in January 2024. PepsiCo has not provided official reasons, but market performance, competition, or strategic shifts likely contributed. The discontinuation was confirmed on the Rockstar Energy Drink website. Even though it's no longer available, its classification as a true energy drink, separate from Mountain Dew soda, is clear.
Visit the PepsiCo website to see their current portfolio of beverage products
Conclusion
Mountain Dew Energy was a legitimate energy drink, distinguished from regular Mountain Dew by its high caffeine content, functional supplements, and purpose of providing a performance boost. This contrasts with standard soda, which offers refreshment with a lower stimulant effect. Though discontinued, its role as a dedicated energy beverage is clear. The product's discontinuation reflects the dynamic nature of the beverage industry.
