America’s most popular drug, by a wide margin, is caffeine. A 2025 survey published in Food and Toxicology found that almost 70 percent of Americans consumed at least one caffeinated drink per day.

But caffeine isn’t just a cup of joe anymore. It’s available in gels, powders, gums, and pouches; there’s even caffeinated beef jerky. There has never been more variety in the delivery mechanisms and flavors at a caffeine consumer’s disposal.

The Food and Drug Administration suggests consuming no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day. An 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee typically contains about 95 milligrams of caffeine, while many popular energy drinks contain around 100 to 200 milligrams of caffeine per 12 ounces. In single servings, these doses aren't much of an issue for most, but

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