Are Energy drinks Gluten Free?

Check the Label
Energy drinks may contain gluten depending on the brand and ingredients.
Energy drinks often contain a mix of sugar, caffeine, vitamins, and additives. Some brands use gluten-containing ingredients like malt, barley, or wheat-based amino acids. Ingredients vary widely.

Coeliac Disease

Check every brand carefully. Many energy drinks contain gluten. Buy certified GF varieties.

Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS)

Same as coeliac guidance. Many energy drinks are not safe.

Why Do Energy drinks Sometimes Contain Gluten?

Gluten comes from malt extract, barley, or wheat-based additives in some energy drink formulations.

Australia vs United States

Australia (FSANZ)

FSANZ requires labelling. Many Australian energy drinks vary widely; check the label.

United States (FDA)

FDA labelling. US energy drinks also vary widely; check for GF certification.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition Facts
Per 100 mL ยท Typical serve: 100 mL (regular, sweetened)
Energy188 kJ / 45 kcal
Protein0.0g
Fat, total0.0g
Saturated fat0.0g
Carbohydrate11.0g
Sugars11.0g
Dietary fibre0.0g
Sodium40mg

Source: USDA FDC. Values are for the generic food in its standard form. Branded products may vary. Always check the product label for the most accurate nutrition information.

What to Watch For

Malt extract, barley, wheat-based amino acids, gluten-containing colourings or flavourings.

Gluten Free Alternatives

If you need a gluten free substitute, consider: Water, coffee, tea, green tea, plain soda.

Medical disclaimer: This is general information about gluten content, not medical advice. If you have coeliac disease, non-coeliac gluten sensitivity, or a wheat allergy, always consult your doctor or accredited practising dietitian before making dietary changes. Product formulations change. Always read the label.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Energy drinks gluten free?

Energy drinks often contain a mix of sugar, caffeine, vitamins, and additives. Some brands use gluten-containing ingredients like malt, barley, or wheat-based amino acids. Ingredients vary widely.

Can coeliacs eat energy drinks?

Check every brand carefully. Many energy drinks contain gluten. Buy certified GF varieties.

Related Foods in Drinks

Water Coffee (plain) Tea (plain) Herbal tea Soft drinks or soda Fruit juice Coconut water Sports drinks

More from RefDat

Explore more reference data at refdat.com.

How We Verify This

Every food in our database is reviewed against current FSANZ and FDA gluten-free standards. Brand data is verified against manufacturer labelling. We cross-reference with Coeliac Australia ingredient lists and the USDA FoodData Central database. When Australian and US standards differ, we apply the stricter standard.

Sources

FSANZ allergen labelling, ingredient analysis

Last reviewed: May 2026