What has more sugar, Red Bull or Coke?

December 26, 2025 •

3 min read

Per 100 milliliters, Red Bull contains slightly more sugar than a Coca-Cola, but comparing standard can sizes tells a different story. Understanding this difference is key when asking what has more sugar, Red Bull or Coke, as the answer depends on the serving size and total grams consumed.

Quick Summary

This article compares the sugar content of Red Bull and Coke by serving size and volume, detailing other nutritional differences like caffeine and calories. It examines the health implications and provides a clear comparison table to help consumers make informed decisions.

Key Points

Total Sugar per Standard Can: A 12 oz Coke has more sugar (39g) than an 8.4 oz Red Bull (27g).
Sugar Density per Milliliter: Red Bull is slightly more sugar-dense per milliliter (11g/100ml) compared to Coke (10.6g/100ml).
Caffeine Content: Red Bull has more than double the caffeine per standard can compared to Coke.
Nutritional Additives: Red Bull contains taurine and B-vitamins, which are not found in standard Coke.
Health Impact: Both drinks exceed recommended daily sugar limits in a single serving and are linked to negative health effects.

Comparing Sugar Content by Standard Serving Size

When comparing the standard cans most commonly sold in the United States, Coca-Cola contains more total sugar than a Red Bull. A standard 12 fl oz can of Coca-Cola has 39 grams of sugar, while an 8.4 fl oz can of Red Bull contains 27 grams of sugar. However, this comparison is skewed by the difference in serving size. The 12 oz Coke is a larger drink, so it naturally contains more total sugar.

The Grams: A Side-by-Side Breakdown

Coca-Cola (12 fl oz can): 39 grams of sugar.
Red Bull (8.4 fl oz can): 27 grams of sugar.

A More Precise Comparison: Sugar Density per 100ml

To get a truly accurate comparison, it is necessary to look at the sugar density per a standardized volume, such as per 100 milliliters. This metric eliminates the confusion caused by different can sizes and reveals which drink is more concentrated with sugar.

Per 100ml Comparison

Red Bull: 11 grams of sugar per 100 ml.
Coca-Cola: 10.6 grams of sugar per 100 ml.

Based on sugar density, Red Bull is slightly more sugary than Coca-Cola. A key takeaway is that an average can of Red Bull, despite being smaller, has a higher concentration of sugar per sip than a Coke.

Beyond Sugar: Caffeine and Other Ingredients

While sugar is a major concern, it is not the only nutritional difference between these two beverages. Red Bull is an energy drink, and its formula includes other stimulants and amino acids designed to boost energy.

Additional Ingredients

Caffeine: Red Bull contains significantly more caffeine. An 8.4 oz Red Bull has 80 mg of caffeine, compared to the 34 mg in a 12 oz can of Coke.
Taurine: Red Bull includes this amino acid, which is involved in various bodily processes.
B-Vitamins: Red Bull is fortified with B-vitamins, such as Niacin, B6, and B12.

Health Implications of Excessive Intake

Consuming high levels of sugar from any source can have negative health consequences. The CDC and American Heart Association recommend limiting daily sugar intake to avoid issues like weight gain, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and tooth decay. A single standard serving of either Red Bull or Coke can exceed the recommended daily sugar limit for many people.

Associated Health Risks

Obesity: The empty calories from sugary drinks contribute to weight gain.
Diabetes: Frequent consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages increases the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Cardiovascular Disease: High sugar intake can negatively impact heart health.
Dental Issues: The combination of sugar and acidity can lead to tooth decay and erosion.

Comparison Table: Red Bull vs. Coke


Feature	Coca-Cola (12 fl oz / 355ml)	Red Bull (8.4 fl oz / 250ml)
Total Sugar	39g	27g
Calories	140	110
Caffeine	34mg	80mg
Sugar per 100ml	10.6g	11g
Other Active Ingredients	None (standard)	Taurine, B-Vitamins

Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice

Deciding which beverage has more sugar ultimately depends on the method of comparison. If considering the standard 12 oz can of Coke against the smaller 8.4 oz can of Red Bull, Coke has more total sugar. However, when comparing sugar concentration per milliliter, Red Bull is slightly more sugar-dense. This illustrates the importance of reading nutrition labels carefully and not just judging based on brand perception.

Ultimately, both drinks contain high amounts of added sugar, often exceeding recommended daily limits in just one serving. For those concerned about sugar intake, limiting both beverages is the wisest course of action. Healthier alternatives include water, unsweetened tea, or naturally flavored sparkling water.

For more information on the health effects of sugar-sweetened beverages, consult the CDC's resources on the topic.

Frequently Asked Questions

A standard 12-ounce can of Coca-Cola has more total sugar (39 grams) than a standard 8.4-ounce can of Red Bull (27 grams).

Red Bull is slightly more concentrated with sugar, containing 11 grams per 100 milliliters compared to Coca-Cola's 10.6 grams per 100 milliliters.

Both drinks contain added sugars that the body processes in a similar way. While Coke uses high fructose corn syrup and/or sugar, Red Bull uses sucrose (sugar from beets) and glucose.

A 12 oz can of Coke has 140 calories, while an 8.4 oz can of Red Bull has 110 calories. However, a 12 oz Red Bull would contain more calories.

Red Bull has significantly more caffeine. An 8.4 oz can of Red Bull contains 80 mg, while a 12 oz can of Coke has 34 mg.

Yes, both Coca-Cola and Red Bull offer sugar-free and diet options. For example, Red Bull has 'Red Bull Sugarfree' and 'Red Bull Zero,' while Coke offers 'Diet Coke' and 'Coca-Cola Zero Sugar'.

Primary health concerns include excessive sugar consumption leading to weight gain, increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and dental problems. The high caffeine in Red Bull can also have other side effects.