Does Sprite Have Caffeine? What About Sprite Zero?

Sprite is the world’s most popular lemon and lime-flavored soft drink. It was first introduced to the United States in 1961 by The Coca-Cola Company.

The same company’s flagship soda drink Coca-Cola, a darker caramelized sugar beverage, does in fact contain caffeine (34 mg in a 12-ounce can to be exact).

So, it’s no wonder why so many people want to know “Is Sprite caffeine-free?” And what about Sprite’s sugar-free alternative, Sprite Zero?

So, Does Sprite Have Caffeine?

No, Sprite is a 100% caffeine-free beverage. Unlike other products made by The Coca-Cola Company, the popular soda Sprite does not contain any caffeine. A 12-ounce (375-ml) can of Sprite packs 140 calories and 38 grams of sugar, but no caffeine.

Since its inception over sixty years ago, Sprite has always been 100% caffeine-free. This is likely due to the fact that Sprite’s main competitor at the time of its launch, 7-Up, was also caffeine-free.

What are the Ingredients in Sprite?

The main ingredients in Sprite are water, high fructose corn syrup, natural flavors, and citric acid. Other ingredients include sodium citrate, erythorbic acid, and sodium benzoate (a preservative).

The high fructose corn syrup is the primary ingredient responsible for Sprite’s sweet flavor and high sugar content. It could also be the reason why Sprite has an energizing effect that’s mistaken for caffeine.

With the crack-down against sugar becoming increasingly popular, the sugar-free version, Sprite Zero, was born. But is it also free of caffeine?

Does Sprite Zero Have Caffeine?

Sprite Zero does not contain any caffeine or sugar. However, it contains aspartame, which is an artificial sweetener.

Some people may be sensitive to aspartame. Anecdotal reports suggest that aspartame can cause headaches and an upset stomach in some individuals.

Sprite Zero vs. Classic Sprite – Which One’s Better?

There’s no denying that sugary sodas are delicious. But is the sugar-filled beverage really worth it? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of Sprite Zero vs. Classic, sugary Sprite.

Sprite Zero

Pros

• There’s no sugar, zero calories, no caffeine
• No calories implies it doesn’t directly contribute to weight gain
• Decreases your risk for tooth decay

Cons

• Some people may find the taste bland or artificial
• The aspartame can have adverse effects on some people
• The lack of sugar provides no source of energy

Classic Sprite

Pros

• Has a pleasant and refreshing taste
• Sprite is completely caffeine-free
• Is a simple carbohydrate source of energy 

Cons:

• The high sugar content can lead to weight gain and oral health issues
• High fructose corn syrup is a synthetic sweetener that can be inflammatory
• Individuals with diabetes should limit Sprite due to blood sugar spikes

So, which is better: Sprite and Sprite Zero? Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference.

Sure, both are caffeine-free. But if you’re looking for a healthier option, Sprite Zero may be the way to go given its zero sugar content. But if you’re craving a sweet treat, sugary Sprite is still a delicious choice.

Can You Drink Sprite Every Day?

The answer to this question depends on a few factors. First, it is important to note that Sprite contains a significant amount of sugar.

A 12-ounce can of Sprite contains 36 grams of sugar. That is equivalent to 9 teaspoons of sugar, which is quite a bit for anyone, even athletes who burn a lot of calories.

If you consume too much Sprite soda, you may be at risk for diabetes, weight gain, and cardiovascular diseases. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that Americans consume too many foods and beverages with added sugars, which can have negative health effects.

In turn, it is probably best to limit your intake of Sprite (and other sugary drinks) to an occasional treat.

What are Good Nutritional Replacements for Sprite?

If you enjoy drinking Sprite but would like to reduce your sugar intake, there are healthier substitutes to consider. However, some of these Sprite alternatives can contain caffeine:

• Sparkling Water: If you’re craving the fizzy taste of soda, sparkling water is a great option. It’s still calorie-free and hydrating, but it will also give you a little bit of bubbles to satisfy your soda craving.
• Tea: Tea is another great option for those looking for a healthy alternative to soda. Green tea, in particular, is filled with antioxidants and has been linked to improved brain function.
• Coffee: Coffee is an excellent option for an energy boost. It contains caffeine, which can help you feel more alert and focused. So, if you’re not avoiding caffeine, coffee would do! Just be sure to watch your intake of sugar and creamers.
• Milk: Milk is an excellent source of protein and calcium. It’s also low in sugar and calories, making it a healthier alternative to soda.
• Juice: If you want something sweet, try juice instead of soda. While juice does contain sugar, it’s natural sugar from fruits and vegetables. And, unlike soda, juices provide vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.
• Lemonade: Lemonade is often thought of as a healthier alternative to sugary drinks like Sprite. While it does have some sugar, lemonade also contains vitamins and minerals that can help offset the negative effects of too much sugar. Additionally, lemonade is a good source of hydration, which is vital for keeping the body functioning properly. 

History of Sprite Soda and Its Many Flavors

Did you know that the original Sprite soda was actually created in Germany? It was named “Fanta Klare Zitrone,” and was created to be a variant of its predecessor, Fanta. What’s shocking is that over the years, there have been a total of 17 different sprites, but only a few Sprite flavors were able to stand out.

These versions include the no-sugar version of Sprite Zero mentioned above, Cranberry Sprite, and Sprite Ginger. Grape Sprite, Cherry Sprite, and Tropical Sprite were good as well but couldn’t reach the top 3. 

The drink gained popularity soon after its introduction. By 1967, it was available in 39 countries. Currently, it is available in more than 190 countries. 

Final Thoughts

Sprite is a popular soft drink that is marketed as being free of caffeine. However, while Sprite may not contain caffeine, it does have other ingredients that can be questionable to your health. Therefore, it is best to limit your consumption of Sprite.