A recent survey conducted in the United States has revealed an increase in caffeine consumption over the past decade, with coffee emerging as the primary source of this stimulant. The study, published in the Elsevier journal Food and Chemical Toxicology, analyzed data from a survey of over 49,000 individuals aged 2 and above who reported their daily beverage consumption.
Researchers calculated caffeine levels based on the types, brands, and serving sizes of beverages consumed, comparing the results to a similar study conducted in 2012. The findings indicated that the average daily caffeine intake had risen to 210 milligrams per day, up from 165 milligrams a decade ago.
Coffee was identified as the predominant source of caffeine among consumers, increasing by 15 percentage points to 69% in 2022. Carbonated soft drinks decreased by 12.1 percentage points to 15.4%, while tea declined by 4.3 percentage points to 8.8%. Energy drinks saw a 3-percentage point increase, contributing 6.3% to total caffeine intake.
Despite average intake levels falling within the FDA’s recommended limits for most adults (400 milligrams per day), the study highlighted excessive caffeine consumption among children and adolescents. Adults aged 50–64 were found to consume the highest amounts of caffeine, with men reporting slightly higher intakes than women.
Energy drinks, though consumed by a smaller segment of the population, were noted to contribute significantly to total caffeine intake due to their increased variety and potency. The study also pointed out the proliferation of caffeinated beverage options in the market, particularly within the coffee category, with the introduction of new varieties such as cold brew and pre-bottled specialty coffee drinks.
The authors underscored the shifting patterns of beverage consumption and the corresponding rise in caffeine intake compared to previous surveys. It is important to note that the study was supported by the caffeine committee of the Institute for the Advancement of Food and Nutrition Sciences (IAFNS), a Washington D.C.-based think tank. Committee members include major corporations in the beverage industry, such as Applied Food Sciences, Keurig Dr Pepper, Kraft Heinz Company, and Red Bull GmbH.
In conclusion, the study highlights the evolving landscape of caffeine consumption in the United States, with coffee emerging as the preferred source of this stimulant among consumers. The findings underscore the need for awareness and moderation, particularly among children and adolescents, in light of the increasing availability and diversity of caffeinated beverages in the market. For further information or inquiries, please feel free to contact DCN’s editors or subscribe to the DCN newsletter for the latest updates in the coffee industry.
