DALLAS — Seattle-based Starbucks released nationwide on Tuesday a new drink called Iced Energy, which has up to 205 milligrams of caffeine in it.
It comes almost two months after Panera Bread discontinued its Charged Sips drinks that were tied to at least two wrongful death lawsuits due to their high caffeine content. The Iced Energy beverages contain up to 205 milligrams of caffeine (in a 24-fluid-ounce Venti), significantly less than the 390 milligrams the controversial Panera Bread Charged Lemonade had in its 30-fluid-ounce cup, however.
The Iced Energy's caffeine levels are equivalent to about six cans of Coke. They come in three flavors, including one only available temporarily through the Starbucks app. Its two in-store menu offerings are Melon Burst and Tropical Citrus. The app-only flavor is Frozen Tropical Citrus Iced Energy with Strawberry Puree.
Both the Melon Burst and Tropical Citrus drinks range from 180 milligrams to 205 milligrams depending on the size you get.
NBC News reported, citing a sales numbers from a Chicago research firm, annual U.S. sales of energy drinks had surged to nearly $22 billion as of mid-May, up from about $13.5 billion at the end of 2019.
Caffeine levels in energy drinks on the market have become a hot topic of conversation, especially in the wake of lawsuits against Prime's energy drink. Prime advertises its 12-ounce can has 200 milligrams of caffeine. Red Bull, which has been sold for decades, contains 114 milligrams of caffeine in a 12-fluid-ounce can. Other popular brands include Celsius (200 mg in 12-fl oz.), Bang (300 mg in 16-fl oz.), Monster (160 mg in 16 fl oz.), Reign (300 mg in 16-fl oz.) and more.
Starbucks’ Iced Energy is different from its refreshers, popular caffeinated juices with about 30 milligrams or more of caffeine.
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