All Dunkin' Refreshers Contain Caffeine
Unlike other fruit-flavored drinks that might be caffeine-free, all Dunkin' Refreshers are caffeinated. The caffeine comes from the green tea extract that is included in the base concentrate used for every Refresher flavor. This fact is a surprise to many customers who are drawn to the fruity, non-coffee options on the menu. Whether you choose the standard preparation with green tea, or swap it for lemonade or water, the drink will still contain caffeine from the concentrate itself.
This green tea base, along with added B vitamins, is what gives Refreshers their intended 'energizing' properties. While they offer a boost, the caffeine content is moderate compared to a standard drip coffee, making them a popular midday pick-me-up for those seeking less intensity than a traditional espresso drink.
Caffeine content by size
The amount of caffeine in a Dunkin' Refresher varies depending on the size you order. As the flavor concentrate and its green tea extract are proportionally scaled up, so is the caffeine.
- Small (16 oz): Contains approximately 66 milligrams (mg) of caffeine.
- Medium (24 oz): Contains approximately 99 milligrams (mg) of caffeine.
- Large (32 oz): Contains approximately 132 milligrams (mg) of caffeine.
For context, a single 1.75-ounce shot of espresso typically has around 63 mg of caffeine, and an 8-ounce cup of green tea can range from 30–50 mg. A medium Refresher (99 mg) is comparable in caffeine to a standard 8-ounce cup of home-brewed coffee, which contains 95–140 mg.
Popular Dunkin' Refresher flavors with caffeine
All current and past Refresher flavors have been made with the green tea concentrate, and therefore contain caffeine. Popular examples include:
- Strawberry Dragonfruit Refresher: A vibrant, tropical option.
- Peach Passion Fruit Refresher: Another popular fruity, caffeinated choice.
- Mango Pineapple Refresher: Known for its sweet and tangy profile.
- Blueberry Pomegranate Refresher: A classic favorite with a berry-forward taste.
Comparison table: Dunkin' Refresher vs. Other Beverages
To help you compare the caffeine content of a Dunkin' Refresher with other popular drinks, here is a helpful table.
| Beverage | Size | Approximate Caffeine Content (mg) |
|---|---|---|
| Small Dunkin' Refresher | 16 oz | 66 mg |
| Medium Dunkin' Refresher | 24 oz | 99 mg |
| Large Dunkin' Refresher | 32 oz | 132 mg |
| Home-Brewed Coffee | 8 oz | 95–140 mg |
| Dunkin' Espresso Shot | 1–1.75 oz | 63 mg |
| Green Tea | 8 oz | 30–50 mg |
| Can of Soda (e.g., Coke) | 12 oz | 32–42 mg |
Customizing your Refresher and managing caffeine intake
For those who are sensitive to caffeine but still enjoy the flavor of Dunkin' Refreshers, there is no way to remove the caffeine completely. However, the drink can be customized to change its character. While swapping the standard green tea base for lemonade or water is a popular modification, the base concentrate itself is still caffeinated. If you want a completely caffeine-free fruity drink, you should explore other options on the menu.
For the average adult, consuming up to 400 mg of caffeine per day is considered safe, so a Refresher fits comfortably within this guideline. The potential issue arises when customers are unaware of the caffeine and consume Refreshers in addition to other caffeinated beverages throughout the day. Always check your total daily consumption to stay within safe limits.
Other Dunkin' non-coffee, caffeinated options
If you're seeking a non-coffee beverage with a caffeine kick, Dunkin' offers other choices, though their caffeine content can vary greatly.
- Iced Tea (Black or Green): A pure source of caffeinated tea.
- Chai Latte: Made with a black tea base and spices, containing caffeine.
- Matcha Latte: Contains caffeine from finely ground green tea powder.
Remember to consult Dunkin's official nutritional information online for the most precise details on ingredients and caffeine levels for any specific beverage. For example, their Refreshers are explicitly listed on the Dunkin' menu as containing energy from green tea, confirming their caffeinated nature.
Conclusion
It is important to understand that all Dunkin' refreshers have caffeine, derived from the green tea extract in their concentrate base, not just the liquid they are mixed with. The amount of caffeine per serving is moderate, ranging from 66 mg in a small to 132 mg in a large. This makes them a pleasant, flavorful option for a gentle energy boost, distinct from high-caffeine energy drinks or espresso-based beverages. By being aware of the caffeine source and quantity, you can make informed choices about your daily consumption, especially if you are sensitive to its effects.
