Which orange soda has caffeine in it?

December 31, 2025 •

3 min read

While many people associate caffeine primarily with colas, energy drinks, and coffee, the stimulant is also found in some unexpected places. The vast majority of mainstream orange sodas are caffeine-free, but it's not always safe to assume that every brand is. If you're wondering which orange soda has caffeine in it, you'll be surprised to learn that one of the most prominent brands is the main exception to the rule.

Quick Summary

This article examines which orange soda brands contain caffeine, highlighting that Sunkist is the primary caffeinated option, while Fanta and Orange Crush are typically caffeine-free. It explores the reasons for this difference and offers a guide to common orange soda varieties and their stimulant content.

Key Points

Sunkist has caffeine: Sunkist is the most prominent orange soda brand that contains caffeine, with 19 mg per 12 fl oz can in its regular, diet, and zero-sugar varieties.
Most orange sodas are caffeine-free: Major brands like Fanta and Orange Crush, along with many smaller brands, do not contain any caffeine.
Caffeine content varies by region: In some countries, such as Canada, Sunkist orange soda is sold in a caffeine-free version.
Always check the label: The most reliable way to determine if a specific orange soda contains caffeine is to read the nutritional information and ingredients list on the product packaging.
Caffeine adds a balancing flavor: Caffeine is sometimes added to sodas to enhance and balance the overall flavor profile by providing a bitter note.
Fanta and Crush are safe bets for no caffeine: If you want to be sure you are drinking a caffeine-free orange soda, Fanta or Orange Crush are consistently safe choices.

Sunkist: The Primary Caffeinated Orange Soda

When it comes to caffeinated orange soda, the brand most people need to be aware of is Sunkist. Unlike its major competitors, Sunkist orange soda contains a low level of caffeine in its original formulation sold in the United States.

For many, this comes as a surprise. The caffeine content was originally higher but has since been lowered. In a 12 fl oz can of Sunkist orange soda, you will find 19 mg of caffeine. The diet and zero-sugar versions of Sunkist orange soda also contain 19 mg of caffeine per 12 fl oz serving. For context, a 12 fl oz can of Coca-Cola has about 34 mg of caffeine, and the same size can of Diet Coke has 46 mg.

It's important to note that the formula can vary by country. For instance, in Canada, a caffeine-free version is marketed under the name C'Plus.

Why does Sunkist have caffeine when others don't?

The reason behind adding caffeine to some sodas is complex. While originally stemming from ingredients like the kola nut in cola drinks, today it's primarily added to enhance the flavor profile and provide a balancing bitter note. In the case of Sunkist, the caffeine is a long-standing ingredient that differentiates its flavor from competitors. This is why some consumers might perceive Sunkist as having a slightly more complex or "zesty" taste compared to other brands.

Caffeine-Free Orange Sodas: A Comprehensive List

Fortunately for those seeking a stimulant-free orange-flavored beverage, the list of caffeine-free options is quite long. This makes it easy to find a delicious alternative if you are sensitive to caffeine or trying to reduce your intake.

Here are some of the most popular orange sodas that do not contain caffeine:

Fanta Orange: A product of The Coca-Cola Company, Fanta Orange is widely known and distributed and is always caffeine-free, including its Zero Sugar variety.
Orange Crush: This classic soda, owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, is advertised as 100% caffeine-free across its various flavors, including the original Orange.
Jarritos Mandarin: This popular Mexican soda is known for its natural fruit flavors and is caffeine-free.
Stewart's Orange 'n Cream: A throwback fountain classic, both the regular and diet versions of this orange cream soda are caffeine-free.
Izze Sparkling Juice: A healthier alternative, this beverage offers a sparkling orange flavor without any added caffeine.

Comparison of popular orange sodas

To help you easily identify the caffeine content, here is a comparison table of several leading orange soda brands.


Brand	Caffeine Content (12 fl oz)	Notes
Sunkist Orange	19 mg	The notable caffeinated exception among major brands.
Diet Sunkist Orange	19 mg	The diet version contains the same amount of caffeine as the regular.
Sunkist Orange Fountain Soda	12 mg	The fountain version has slightly less caffeine.
Fanta Orange	0 mg	Widely available and consistently caffeine-free.
Fanta Zero Sugar Orange	0 mg	The low-calorie version is also caffeine-free.
Orange Crush	0 mg	A classic choice, proudly caffeine-free.
Diet Orange Crush	0 mg	The diet variant is also free of caffeine.

The Role of Ingredient Labels

For consumers with caffeine sensitivity or those simply wanting to be more mindful of their intake, reading the ingredient label is the most reliable method. Manufacturers are required to list caffeine on the label if it has been added to the product. Many people mistakenly assume that all orange sodas are caffeine-free, and this is exactly why reading the label on a Sunkist product can be eye-opening.

The ingredient list for Sunkist orange soda, for example, explicitly includes "Caffeine". By contrast, the ingredients for Fanta Orange clearly list the components without any mention of caffeine. It’s a simple but crucial practice that ensures you know exactly what you’re consuming.

Conclusion

While the market is dominated by caffeine-free options like Fanta and Orange Crush, the answer to "which orange soda has caffeine in it?" is definitively Sunkist. All major varieties of Sunkist orange soda sold in the United States contain 19 mg of caffeine per 12 fl oz serving, making it a key exception among orange-flavored sodas. Consumers should always check product labels to confirm the caffeine content, especially since regional formulations can differ. For a caffeine-free orange soda, Fanta or Crush are reliable and readily available choices.

This article contains information based on product formulations in the United States and Canada. Check local product labels for the most accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, Fanta orange soda is consistently caffeine-free, including its regular and Zero Sugar versions.

No, Orange Crush is 100% caffeine-free. This applies to all of its flavors, not just orange.

A 12 fl oz can of Sunkist orange soda contains 19 mg of caffeine. This is true for both the regular and Zero Sugar varieties.

Sunkist orange soda can be considered a low-caffeine option compared to drinks like coffee or cola, containing 19 mg per 12 fl oz. Most other brands are either caffeine-free or contain none at all.

The inclusion of caffeine is a formulaic choice by the beverage manufacturer. While some companies add it to enhance flavor or provide a stimulant kick, others choose to keep their products caffeine-free to appeal to a wider audience.

No, in Canada, the brand sells a caffeine-free orange drink under the name C'Plus. This is different from the US formulation.

Yes, it is easy to tell if a soda contains caffeine. Manufacturers are required to list caffeine in the ingredients list on the product label. Always check the label if you are unsure.

While a caffeine-free soda removes a stimulant, it does not necessarily make it 'healthier.' Factors like sugar content, artificial sweeteners, and other additives are also important to consider when evaluating a beverage's health impact.