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Jan 25, 2024 - Foods
Caffeine – Reason for Caution?
According to the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), consuming too much caffeine can cause health side effects such as nausea or nervousness. Caffeine is primarily found in coffee beans, cocoa beans, and some tea leaves. It is also added to other beverages, such as cola or energy drinks. According to the National Consumption Study II, coffee accounts for about a quarter of daily fluid intake in Germany. This means that a large portion of daily fluid is consumed in the form of coffee and therefore caffeine. The recommended daily dose of caffeine is 400 mg. On average, a 200ml cup of filter coffee contains about 90 mg of caffeine. If you drink about 500–600 ml of coffee daily, you consume 225 mg - 270 mg of caffeine. Moderate intake can improve concentration, attention, and physical performance. If you consume too much, it can lead to heart palpitations, insomnia, sweating, nervousness, or irritability. Consuming too much caffeine over an extended period can cause long-lasting side effects such as cardiovascular problems or high blood pressure. It is important to know that caffeine is not only found in coffee or tea. Chocolate, specifically dark chocolate, also contains caffeine due to cocoa beans. For example, 50 grams of milk chocolate contain about 10 mg of caffeine, and 50 grams of dark chocolate contain 25 mg of caffeine. The situation is quite different with energy drinks. Typically, these substances are harmless at an average content of 80 mg/250 ml. However, higher doses can also be used. Under no circumstances should the caffeine amount in an energy drink can exceed 200 milligrams.
To sum up:
- Harmless when consumed in moderation
- Coffee and chocolate contain relatively little caffeine
- Caution is advised with energy drinks with high caffeine content
In our Tentamus laboratories, we regularly conduct tests on caffeine content. We deliver fast and reliable results and are happy to advise you on the subject.
If you have any questions, our customer advisors are happy to help.
Sources:
EFSA: www.efsa.europa.eu