Does Root Beer Have Caffeine?

We LOVE Root Beer, and so do many of all ages! It can be the drink of choice for just about anyone! But does Root Beer have caffeine? Let’s find out and break down one of America’s nostalgic beverages.

Root beer is the perfect beverage to evoke those childhood memories of festive family gatherings and special events. Even adults can reminisce about their favorite root beer floats or sipping on a cold glass of Root Beer with friends.

There are many ways to enjoy root beer, whether as a classic float with vanilla ice cream, in slushies, as part of cocktail recipes, or as an ingredient in savory dishes.

Root beer has always been there! 

It has been used in marinades and sauces for meats like pork and chicken, adding a unique sweetness and depth of flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

Did we mention it’s even a drink great drink for kids!

Why?

Because many brands do not include caffeine.

Does Root Beer Have Caffeine?

Most Root beers on the market do not contain caffeine but instead use artificial sweeteners such as sucralose or aspartame to add sweetness to other caffeinated drinks.

Even though root beer may taste like it has caffeine, there is none present.

However, beware, there are some exceptions.

While most root beers are caffeine-free, some brands add caffeine as an added ingredient. 

For example, Sun Drop and Hires Big H Root Beer contains 22-32 milligrams of caffeine per 12-ounce serving.

Others such as Barq’s, Mug, and IBC contain slightly less at around 18 milligrams per 12 ounces.

That’s about half the caffeine of a Coke or regular caffeinated soda!

Root Beer vs. Regular Soda

Regular sodas contain more sugar than root beer and contain artificial coloring and flavoring agents. Sodas also usually have caffeine added for additional flavoring.

On the other hand, root beer is generally made from natural ingredients and may not contain any added stimulants such as caffeine.

Root Beer Is Healthier

As such, root beer is often considered a healthier alternative to regular soda.

More About Root Beer

• Root beer was invented in the late 1800s by Philadelphia chemist and pharmacist, Dr. Charles Elmer Hires.
• The name “root beer” came from the fact that its original recipe included at least 28 natural roots, herbs, and berries.
• In legal terms, root beer is classified as an ale because it contains carbonation like most beers do.
• Root beer has been used to treat a variety of ailments over the years including stomach aches, poor digestion, and muscle pains.

Summary

In conclusion, most root beer types do not contain caffeine, but some brands may add caffeine as an additive.

If you are concerned about the amount of caffeine, always check the label or contact the manufacturer directly.