Which Root Beer Is Caffeine Free? A Guide to Brands and Checking Labels

November 14, 2025 •

4 min read

While many assume all root beers are caffeine-free, a well-known exception exists among popular brands. For anyone monitoring their stimulant intake, knowing which root beer has caffeine free options is crucial for making an informed choice without sacrificing flavor.

Quick Summary

Most root beer varieties are naturally caffeine-free, including major brands like A&W and Mug. A notable exception is regular Barq's, which contains a small amount of added caffeine, though its diet version is not caffeinated.

Key Points

Majority are Caffeine-Free: Most popular root beer brands, including A&W, Mug, and Dad's, do not contain caffeine.
Barq's is the Exception: Regular Barq's Root Beer is the most well-known exception, containing 22 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can.
Diet Versions are Safe: Diet and Zero Sugar versions of Barq's, A&W, and Mug are reliably caffeine-free.
Check Craft Labels: While most craft root beers are caffeine-free, special versions like Sprecher's "Rev'd Up" contain added caffeine, so always check the label.
Traditional is Naturally Caffeine-Free: Root beer is traditionally made with ingredients that do not contain caffeine, and the practice has largely continued with modern manufacturers.

The General Rule: Root Beer is Naturally Caffeine-Free

For many years, the delicious and unique flavor of root beer has been a staple in American households, and its naturally caffeine-free status is a key part of its appeal. The classic version of the beverage derives its flavor from roots, bark, and herbs—historically sassafras root—none of which contain caffeine. Although modern commercial root beers use artificial flavors to replicate the sassafras taste due to health concerns, the absence of caffeine in most brands is a carryover from its traditional, stimulant-free roots. This makes most root beer a safe and enjoyable choice for individuals sensitive to caffeine, those who want an evening beverage that won't disrupt sleep, or children.

The Notable Exception: Barq's Root Beer

Among the most widely recognized brands, regular Barq's Root Beer is the singular exception to the caffeine-free rule. Advertised with the slogan "Barq's has bite!", this brand contains approximately 22 mg of added caffeine per 12-ounce can. This was a deliberate decision by the company, potentially made to distinguish itself from competitors like Hires during the early 20th century.

However, it is crucial to note that not all Barq's products contain caffeine. Both Barq's Zero Sugar Root Beer and Diet Barq's are completely caffeine-free. Additionally, the Barq's root beer dispensed from Coca-Cola's Freestyle machines is also free of caffeine, as are some regional versions sold in specific states like Utah.

Comprehensive List of Caffeine-Free Root Beer Brands

For those seeking a root beer that won't give them a jolt, a wide variety of excellent options are available from both major and craft brewers. Here are some of the most popular brands that are consistently caffeine-free:

A&W Root Beer: One of the most famous brands, A&W is a reliably caffeine-free choice, known for its creamy, vanilla flavor. Their diet and zero sugar varieties are also caffeine-free.
Mug Root Beer: A classic that has been making memories for over 65 years, Mug Root Beer is another standard caffeine-free option. Both the regular and zero sugar versions contain no caffeine.
Dad's Root Beer: Another major player in the market, Dad's offers a caffeine-free experience, perfect for floats and enjoying with friends.
Sprecher Root Beer: This craft brewer offers a delicious, fire-brewed root beer that is naturally caffeine-free. However, they also offer a "Rev'd Up" version that contains caffeine, so always check the label.
IBC Root Beer: A popular choice often found in glass bottles, IBC is a smooth and consistently caffeine-free beverage.
Jones Soda Root Beer: Known for its fun labels and cane sugar formula, Jones Root Beer is another great caffeine-free option.
Stewart's Root Beer: Available in both regular and diet, Stewart's brand is also caffeine-free.
Shasta Root Beer: This draft-style soda has been a family favorite for generations and is completely caffeine-free.

Root Beer Comparison Table: Caffeine vs. Caffeine-Free

To provide a clear overview, here is a comparison of caffeine levels in some popular root beer products:


Brand	Product	Caffeine Content (per 12 fl oz)	Notes
Barq's	Regular Root Beer	22 mg	Contains caffeine
Barq's	Diet / Zero Sugar Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
A&W	Regular Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
A&W	Zero Sugar / Diet Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
Mug	Regular Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
Mug	Zero Sugar / Diet Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
Sprecher	Standard Root Beer	0 mg	Caffeine-free
Sprecher	Rev'd Up Root Beer	Added caffeine	Caffeinated version

The Health and Lifestyle Benefits of Caffeine-Free Root Beer

Opting for a caffeine-free beverage offers several benefits, particularly for those with specific health needs or lifestyle choices. Individuals who are sensitive to stimulants, children, and pregnant women are often advised to limit their caffeine intake. Choosing a caffeine-free root beer allows them to enjoy a flavorful, classic soda without worrying about unwanted side effects like jitters, anxiety, or sleeplessness. Drinking a caffeine-free option in the evening is also a great way to satisfy a craving for a sweet, fizzy drink without disturbing your sleep cycle.

Conclusion: Making the Right Root Beer Choice

For the vast majority of cases, the answer to "Which root beer has caffeine free?" is simple: most of them do. The tradition of creating a non-caffeinated beverage has been maintained by a wide array of popular and craft brands. However, the one significant and common exception is regular Barq's Root Beer, which has a moderate amount of added caffeine. For those who want to avoid caffeine completely, the solution is to be a label-reader. Always check the ingredients list before you buy, especially if you're selecting a product with Barq's branding or a special craft version like Sprecher's "Rev'd Up" line. By doing so, you can confidently enjoy the classic flavor of root beer while keeping your caffeine intake in check.

For additional information on caffeine content in various drinks, visit the Center for Science in the Public Interest's handy resource(https://www.cspi.org/caffeine-chart).

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, A&W Root Beer is caffeine-free, as is its diet and zero sugar version. The brand is known for its creamy, vanilla flavor and its consistent lack of caffeine.

No, Mug Root Beer is entirely caffeine-free. The regular, diet, and zero sugar versions all contain no caffeine, making it a safe choice for those avoiding stimulants.

Only the regular Barq's Root Beer contains caffeine. Its diet and zero sugar versions are caffeine-free, as is the Barq's served from Coca-Cola Freestyle soda fountains.

A standard 12-ounce can of regular Barq's Root Beer contains approximately 22 mg of caffeine. This is considerably less than a cup of coffee but still a notable amount for a soft drink.

Most craft root beers are caffeine-free and follow the traditional recipe. However, some brands like Sprecher offer both a standard caffeine-free version and a caffeinated option, so it is always important to check the product label.

The caffeine in Barq's is an added ingredient, a choice made historically to give the drink a distinguishing "bite" compared to competitors. It is not naturally present in the root beer's base ingredients.

The most reliable method is to check the nutritional information and ingredients list on the product's packaging. Look for the word "caffeine" on the label to confirm its presence or absence.