Caffeine is a stimulant that is commonly found in coffee, tea, and soda. However, caffeine can also be found in many other foods that might surprise you. Here are some uncommon foods with caffeine content:.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a great source of caffeine. The higher percentage of cocoa in the chocolate, the more caffeine it will contain.
A 1-ounce serving of dark chocolate can contain up to 23 milligrams of caffeine, which is equivalent to about 1/4 cup of coffee.
Matcha Tea
Matcha tea is a type of green tea that is made by grinding whole green tea leaves into a fine powder. Because you consume the entire tea leaf, matcha tea has a higher concentration of caffeine than other types of green tea.
One serving of matcha tea contains about 70 milligrams of caffeine, which is equivalent to about 1 cup of coffee.
Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is a traditional South American tea that is made by steeping the dried leaves of the yerba mate plant. It has an earthy flavor and contains about 85 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is equivalent to about 1 cup of coffee.
Guarana
Guarana is a plant native to the Amazon basin that is used to make a refreshing soda in many parts of Brazil. It contains about twice as much caffeine as coffee beans and is often used as a natural energy supplement.
Ice Cream
Believe it or not, some brands of ice cream contain caffeine. This is because caffeine is sometimes added to enhance the flavor of coffee or chocolate ice cream. Just one scoop of coffee-flavored ice cream can contain up to 30 milligrams of caffeine.
Protein Bars
Many protein bars contain added caffeine to provide an extra energy boost. Depending on the brand, these bars can contain anywhere from 50 to 200 milligrams of caffeine per serving.
Energy Water
Energy water is a relatively new product on the market that contains caffeine and other stimulants. It is marketed as a healthier alternative to energy drinks because it contains fewer calories and sugar.
Snack Foods
Some snack foods, like potato chips and popcorn, contain added caffeine. These products are marketed as “energy snacks” and are often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts to enhance their performance.
Tea-infused Products
Tea-infused products, like shampoo and skincare products, can also contain caffeine. This is because caffeine is thought to have beneficial effects on the skin and hair.
Spices
Believe it or not, some spices contain caffeine. In particular, the spice guarana, which is used in many energy drinks, contains high levels of caffeine. Other spices that may contain caffeine include cinnamon and nutmeg.