Which zero drinks have no caffeine?

January 2, 2026 •

4 min read

According to data compiled by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, clear sodas like Sprite and 7UP naturally contain zero caffeine. For those looking to reduce their stimulant intake, knowing which zero drinks have no caffeine is crucial for making informed and healthier beverage choices.

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of popular carbonated and alternative zero-calorie, zero-sugar beverages that contain absolutely no caffeine. It lists specific brand options and offers a helpful comparison table.

Key Points

Caffeine-Free Cola Options: Brands like Coca-Cola and Pepsi offer specific zero-sugar versions labeled 'Caffeine Free' for cola flavor without the stimulant.
Clear Sodas are Naturally Caffeine-Free: Lemon-lime sodas like Sprite Zero Sugar, 7UP Zero, and Fresca typically contain no caffeine.
Root Beer Varies by Brand: Most zero-sugar root beers like A&W and Mug are caffeine-free, but it is important to check the label, as some brands like Barq's Zero contain caffeine.
Sparkling Waters and Herbal Teas: Unsweetened sparkling waters (LaCroix, Bubly) and herbal teas (chamomile, rooibos) are reliable naturally zero-calorie and caffeine-free options.
Zevia Offers Many Caffeine-Free Flavors: The Zevia brand has many zero-sugar, zero-calorie flavors, but their cola-style drinks often contain natural caffeine, so read the specific product label.

Your Guide to Caffeine-Free, Zero-Sugar Beverages

Many consumers turn to 'zero' drinks as a sugar-free alternative to traditional sodas. However, the term 'zero' on a label typically refers to zero sugar and calories, not necessarily zero caffeine. While coffee and energy drinks are obvious sources of caffeine, many people are surprised to learn that certain zero-sugar sodas and other beverages also contain stimulants. For those trying to avoid caffeine for health reasons, sleep quality, or personal preference, finding truly caffeine-free options is essential.

Popular Caffeine-Free Zero-Sugar Sodas

Not all sodas are created equal. Below is a list of common zero-sugar sodas that are typically free of caffeine. Remember to always check the specific product's label, as formulations can vary by country or special edition.

7UP Zero Sugar: A classic lemon-lime flavor that is consistently caffeine-free.
A&W Root Beer Zero Sugar: Most root beers, including A&W's zero-sugar version, are naturally caffeine-free.
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine: This specific product, often found in stores as "Coke Zero Sugar Caffeine Free," is formulated without any caffeine.
Fanta Zero: Most flavors of Fanta Zero, such as Fanta Orange Zero, do not contain caffeine.
Fresca: This grapefruit citrus-flavored sparkling soda is caffeine-free.
Mug Root Beer Zero: Like A&W, Mug Root Beer's zero-sugar option is a reliable caffeine-free choice.
Pepsi Zero Sugar Caffeine Free: A specific version of Pepsi Zero Sugar created for those avoiding caffeine.
Sprite Zero Sugar: Another classic lemon-lime offering from Coca-Cola that is always caffeine-free.
Starry Zero Sugar: The lemon-lime soda from PepsiCo that replaced Sierra Mist is also caffeine-free.

Sparkling Waters and Infused Drinks

Beyond traditional sodas, many other zero-calorie beverages offer refreshment without caffeine. These options are often flavored with natural essences or fruit extracts.

LaCroix Sparkling Water: All varieties of this popular sparkling water are calorie-free, sugar-free, and caffeine-free.
Bubly Sparkling Water: PepsiCo's flavored sparkling water brand contains zero calories, zero sugar, and zero caffeine.
Perrier Sparkling Natural Mineral Water: Both plain and flavored varieties are naturally caffeine-free.
Spindrift Sparkling Water: Made with real squeezed fruit, Spindrift sparkling waters contain no added sugar and are caffeine-free.
Zevia Zero Sugar Sodas: While some Zevia cola flavors contain natural caffeine, most of their fruit-flavored sodas are caffeine-free and sweetened with stevia leaf extract. Always check the specific flavor's label.

Other Refreshing Alternatives

For those looking beyond carbonated beverages, there are several other zero-caffeine and zero-sugar options worth exploring.

Herbal Tea: Naturally caffeine-free options include peppermint, chamomile, ginger, and rooibos tea.
Flavored Water Enhancers: Products like Mio and Stur allow you to create your own customized, flavored water without sugar or caffeine.
Infused Water: Add slices of cucumber, lemon, or berries to plain or sparkling water for a naturally flavored, zero-calorie, and caffeine-free drink.
Tonic Water: Most standard tonic water brands are caffeine-free. Always check the label for zero-sugar versions.

Comparison of Popular Zero-Caffeine Drinks


Drink Brand	Flavor Profile	Sweetener(s)	Caffeine Content (per 12 oz)	Other Notes
7UP Zero Sugar	Lemon-Lime	Aspartame, Acesulfame K	0 mg	Classic, widely available soda flavor.
Coke Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine	Cola	Aspartame, Acesulfame K	0 mg	A specific product for those who want cola taste without caffeine.
A&W Root Beer Zero Sugar	Root Beer	Aspartame	0 mg	A popular caffeine-free root beer option.
Sprite Zero Sugar	Lemon-Lime	Aspartame, Acesulfame K	0 mg	Another ubiquitous lemon-lime soda choice.
Zevia Zero Sugar Soda	Various Fruit Flavors	Stevia Leaf Extract	0 mg (most flavors)	A wide variety of naturally sweetened options; check cola flavors for caffeine.
LaCroix Sparkling Water	Various Flavors	None	0 mg	Calorie-free sparkling water, great for hydration.

Potential Health Considerations

While zero-sugar, caffeine-free drinks can be a good alternative to sugary sodas, they are not without health considerations. Many of these beverages contain artificial sweeteners like aspartame, acesulfame potassium, or sucralose. While approved for consumption by regulatory bodies like the FDA, the long-term health effects of high-intensity sweeteners are still a subject of ongoing research. Some studies suggest a link between artificial sweeteners and altered gut health or metabolic changes. For the most health-conscious choice, unsweetened sparkling water or herbal teas are the best alternatives.

Conclusion

For anyone seeking a refreshing, zero-calorie, and zero-sugar beverage without the effects of caffeine, the options are plentiful. From classic lemon-lime and root beer sodas to flavored sparkling waters and herbal teas, there is a variety of choices to suit different tastes. Products like Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine and Pepsi Zero Sugar Caffeine Free specifically cater to this need, while brands like Zevia and LaCroix offer entire product lines built around the concept. The key is to be a vigilant consumer: read the nutrition labels carefully, especially for caffeinated flavors like cola within a broader product range like Zevia. By doing so, you can confidently enjoy a delicious, energizing, and jitter-free drink anytime you choose. Always remember that water remains the healthiest and most hydrating choice of all. For more detailed nutritional information on many popular drinks, you can consult resources like the Center for Science in the Public Interest's caffeine chart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, standard Coke Zero Sugar contains caffeine, typically around 34 mg per 12-ounce can. However, The Coca-Cola Company does produce a specific version labeled 'Coca-Cola Zero Sugar Zero Caffeine'.

Yes, Sprite Zero Sugar is completely caffeine-free. The lemon-lime soda has always been produced without caffeine, a trait that carries over to its zero-sugar counterpart.

No, not all root beers are caffeine-free. While many brands like A&W and Mug Zero Root Beer are, brands like Barq's Zero Root Beer do contain caffeine. It is always best to check the nutritional information on the packaging.

No, Diet 7UP is a caffeine-free beverage. The entire 7UP product line, including the diet and zero-sugar versions, does not contain any caffeine.

Most plain and flavored sparkling waters, such as LaCroix, Bubly, and Perrier, are naturally caffeine-free. Always check for added ingredients in prebiotic or energy-focused sparkling drinks, as they may contain stimulants.

Yes, Pepsi offers a specific product called 'Pepsi Zero Sugar Caffeine Free'. You must look for this specific label to ensure the product is free of caffeine, as the standard Pepsi Zero Sugar does contain it.

The most reliable way is to read the nutrition facts label on the can or bottle. The label will list the caffeine content, or the product name will explicitly state "Caffeine Free" or "Zero Caffeine".

Most Zevia sodas are caffeine-free, including their ginger ale and fruit flavors. However, some flavors like Zevia Cola and Zevia Dr. Zevia contain natural caffeine extracted from green coffee beans.

Yes. The healthiest options are often simple, like plain sparkling water or herbal teas. You can also make your own infused water with fruits and herbs for a naturally flavored, zero-calorie, and caffeine-free beverage.