What is Caffeine?

The history of caffeine is as colourful as it's many current uses. A naturally occurring material, it is found in the leaves, seeds and/or fruit of more than 63 plant species growing around the world.

Since ancient times, people have consumed caffeine in foods and beverages as a pick-me-up ingredient. Small amounts of caffeine have been used in various soft drinks for over a century. It was part of the original formula for kola soft drinks, found in one of the flavouring extracts. Like other foods and beverages, the flavour and taste of soft drinks depend on subtle amounts and combinations of ingredients. Caffeine contributes to the overall flavour profile of cola type soft drinks by providing a slightly bitter flavour to the product.

All categories of food additives, including caffeine, remain subject to ongoing safety review by regulatory authorities throughout the world. This review includes a comprehensive search of world medical and scientific literature on the safety of each ingredient.

Caffeine is one of the most widely researched food additives. Recent studies have reinforced the belief that caffeine is safe for use as a food ingredient. As such, caffeine is permitted by regulatory authorities around the world and is approved for use by numerous health agencies, such as the United States Food and Drug Administration.

How much caffeine is in V?

To ensure that 'V' complies with the caffeine limits set out in the Food Standards Code, our formulation includes 78mg of caffeine per 250ml – similar to that found in an average cup of instant coffee.