Which Root Beer Sodas Have Caffeine?

While most root beer varieties are naturally caffeine-free, a notable exception is Barq's, which contains a moderate amount of added caffeine in its regular version. This surprises many consumers who assume all root beer sodas have no caffeine, making it essential to check the label for brands like Barq's and others that produce caffeinated options.

Quick Summary

This article provides a comprehensive overview of popular root beer brands, detailing which sodas contain caffeine and which are caffeine-free. It explores specific products like Barq's, Sprecher's Rev'd Up, A&W, and Mug, highlighting intentional caffeine additions versus traditional recipes.

Key Points

• Barq's Regular Root Beer: Contains approximately 22 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce serving, making it the most prominent caffeinated root beer.

• Sprecher's Rev'd Up: This is a specific caffeinated version offered by the craft brewer Sprecher, while their standard root beer is caffeine-free.

• Most Brands are Caffeine-Free: The vast majority of popular root beers, including A&W, Mug, Dad's, and regular Sprecher, do not contain caffeine.

• Diet Versions are Often Caffeine-Free: For brands that offer a caffeinated regular version (like Barq's), the diet or zero-sugar alternative is typically caffeine-free.

• Check the Label: For any unfamiliar brand, the best practice is to check the ingredient list for the word "caffeine" to be sure.

• Why Some Have Caffeine: Some manufacturers add caffeine to differentiate their product or appeal to consumers seeking an energy boost, despite it not being a traditional ingredient.

Root Beer and Caffeine: The General Rule

Most popular root beer brands on the market today are intentionally produced without caffeine. Historically, root beer recipes were herbal concoctions based on sassafras root and other ingredients, which do not contain caffeine naturally. After sassafras was identified as a potential carcinogen and banned as a food additive by the FDA in the 1960s, manufacturers switched to using artificial sassafras flavoring, but the tradition of caffeine-free recipes continued for most companies.

The Notable Exceptions: Root Beer with Caffeine

While the majority of root beer is caffeine-free, some manufacturers deliberately add caffeine to their products to create a different flavor profile or provide an energy kick. The most widely known caffeinated root beer is Barq's, but it is not the only one. Smaller or specialty brands may also offer caffeinated varieties.

Barq's Root Beer

For those wondering which root beer sodas have caffeine, Barq's is the most famous answer. Its regular version contains approximately 22 mg of caffeine per 12-ounce can. The company has historically leaned into this distinction with slogans like "Barq's has bite!" to highlight the extra zing. It's crucial to note, however, that the diet version, Barq's Zero Sugar Root Beer, and the version served in Coca-Cola Freestyle machines are caffeine-free.

Sprecher's Rev'd Up Root Beer

Craft soda producer Sprecher also offers a caffeinated option for its fans. While its standard, fire-brewed root beer is caffeine-free, the company specifically markets a product called "Rev'd Up Root Beer" for those seeking a boost. This variety is explicitly labeled to indicate the added caffeine, giving consumers a clear choice.

Popular Root Beers Without Caffeine

The vast majority of nationally distributed root beers are caffeine-free, making them a suitable option for those avoiding the stimulant. Checking the ingredient list is always the safest method, but the following brands are known for their caffeine-free products:

• A&W Root Beer: This classic brand has been caffeine-free for over 100 years. Its regular and zero-sugar versions do not contain caffeine.
• Mug Root Beer: Owned by PepsiCo, all Mug products are explicitly advertised as being caffeine-free.
• Dad's Root Beer: Another historic brand, Dad's Old Fashioned Root Beer is also caffeine-free.
• Sprecher Root Beer (Regular): As mentioned, the standard Sprecher root beer is naturally caffeine-free and fire-brewed with honey.

How to Check for Caffeine in Any Soda

When in doubt, checking the product label is the most reliable method for determining caffeine content. Here are a few tips:

1. Read the ingredient list: Caffeine is a regulated additive and must be listed on the label. If you see the word "caffeine" in the ingredients, the product contains it.
2. Look for nutritional information: Sometimes, the caffeine content is listed in milligrams as part of the nutritional facts panel. This is more common in diet and energy sodas but can be found on others.
3. Check the company's website: Many brands, like PepsiCo and Coca-Cola, maintain websites with comprehensive nutritional information for all their products.
4. Watch for special variations: Be mindful of different versions of a brand. For example, a diet or "Zero Sugar" version that is typically caffeine-free might have a caffeinated counterpart.

Caffeine in Root Beer Comparison Table

Brand	Product	Caffeine per 12 oz. (approx.)	Notes
Barq's	Regular Root Beer	22 mg	A notable exception to the norm. Has 'bite.'
Barq's	Zero Sugar Root Beer	0 mg	Diet version is caffeine-free.
Sprecher	Rev'd Up Root Beer	Varies (added)	Specifically formulated for a caffeine boost.
Sprecher	Regular Root Beer	0 mg	Fire-brewed and caffeine-free.
A&W	Root Beer	0 mg	A long-standing caffeine-free classic.
Mug	Root Beer	0 mg	All Mug products are caffeine-free.
Dad's	Root Beer	0 mg	Old fashioned recipe without caffeine.

Conclusion

For most people, reaching for a classic root beer means enjoying a caffeine-free beverage. However, the presence of caffeinated options like Barq's regular and Sprecher's Rev'd Up makes it important for consumers to stay informed. Always read the product label to be certain, especially when trying a new or specialty brand. The root beer market offers plenty of choices for everyone, whether you prefer a mellow, relaxing sip or one with an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is A&W Root Beer caffeine-free?

Yes, A&W Root Beer is caffeine-free. This applies to both the regular and zero-sugar versions of the popular beverage.

Does Mug Root Beer contain caffeine?

No, Mug Root Beer products are entirely caffeine-free. According to the manufacturer, PepsiCo, all Mug beverages are produced without any caffeine.

Is Barq's the only root beer with caffeine?

No, while Barq's is the most well-known caffeinated root beer, other brands, like Sprecher's 'Rev'd Up' variety, also contain caffeine. Some specialty or energy-drink root beers may also be caffeinated.

Does Diet Barq's have caffeine?

No, Diet Barq's Root Beer, now known as Barq's Zero Sugar Root Beer, is caffeine-free. The caffeine is only present in the regular, full-sugar version.

Why do some root beers have caffeine while others don't?

Caffeine is not a traditional or naturally occurring ingredient in root beer. Brands like Barq's began adding it to create a unique flavor profile or 'bite' to distinguish themselves from competitors. Other brands have since followed with specific caffeinated variations.

How much caffeine is in Barq's Regular Root Beer?

A 12-ounce can of Barq's Regular Root Beer contains approximately 22 mg of caffeine. This is significantly less than the amount found in a cup of coffee.

Is Sprecher's Root Beer caffeinated?

Sprecher offers both caffeinated and caffeine-free versions. Their classic, fire-brewed root beer is caffeine-free, but they also produce a specific variety called 'Rev'd Up Root Beer' which contains caffeine.