| Feature | Synthetic Caffeine | Plant-Based Caffeine (FITAID) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Manufactured through an industrial process | Extracted from plants |
| Common Origins | Lab-produced caffeine powder | Green tea leaves, yerba mate |
| Label Disclosure | Often listed simply as “caffeine” or within blends | Source typically specified on label |
| Ingredient Context | Isolated compound | Comes from identifiable botanical sources |
| Use in Proprietary Blends | Common | Rare |
| Consumer Transparency | Variable | High |
| FITAID Usage | ❌ Not used | ✅ Used exclusively |
| Regulatory Status | FDA-permitted | FDA-permitted |
| Typical Consumer Preference Trend | Declining | Growing |
A Clear, Side-by-Side Comparison Feature Synthetic Caffeine Plant-Based Caffeine (FITAID) Source Manufactured through an industrial process Extracted from plants Common Origins Lab-produced caffeine powder Green tea leaves, yerba mate Label Disclosure Often listed simply as “caffeine” or within blends Source typically specified on label Ingredient Context Isolated compound Comes from identifiable botanical sources Use in […]
Caffeine is one of the most common ingredients in energy drinks—and one of the least clearly explained.
At FITAID®, we believe energy should never be a guessing game. You deserve to know how much caffeine you’re consuming and exactly where it comes from. That’s why FITAID sources caffeine exclusively from green tea and yerba mate and clearly discloses every milligram on the label.
No vague blends.
No unnamed extracts.
No hidden stimulants.
Just fully disclosed, plant-based caffeine by design.
Caffeine shows up on millions of labels, but transparency doesn’t always follow.
At FITAID, our approach is simple:
That’s why every FITAID label clearly states both the amount and the botanical source of caffeine used in the product.
If it gives you energy, it should come with answers.
FITAID formulates each energy product with specific plant sources to match its intended use. No one-size-fits-all stimulation.
FITAID Zero Sugar Energy | 200 mg caffeine
FITAID Zero Sugar Energy uses caffeine sourced from green tea, a botanical ingredient that has been consumed globally for centuries.
Why green tea:
200 mg caffeine.
Green tea sourced.
Fully disclosed.
FOCUSAID® | 100 mg caffeine
FOCUSAID® pairs caffeine from green tea and yerba mate to deliver a more moderate caffeine level, designed for focus-oriented use.
Why this combination:
100 mg caffeine.
Two plant sources.
Purpose-driven formulation.
Many energy drinks list caffeine under vague terms like:
These labels can make it difficult to understand how much caffeine you’re consuming or where it comes from.
FITAID doesn’t use proprietary stimulant blends.
Every milligram of caffeine is accounted for.
If it’s in the can, it’s on the label.
Transparency isn’t optional. It’s the standard.
Caffeine is chemically the same regardless of origin—but how it’s sourced and disclosed differs.
FITAID chooses plant-based caffeine because it meets our standards for traceability, familiarity, and transparent formulation.
Real plants.
Real sourcing.
No mystery stimulants.
With FITAID, you get:
What you won’t get:
Know your source.
Know your dose.
Choose intentionally.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA)
Caffeine should be clearly labeled so consumers can make informed decisions about intake.
Source: FDA Caffeine Guidance
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
Consumers increasingly seek clarity around caffeine sources and amounts as part of broader ingredient transparency expectations.
Source: Harvard Nutrition Source
Mintel – Energy & Beverage Trends
Transparency around caffeine content and sourcing is a growing priority among energy drink consumers.
Source: Mintel Food & Drink Trends
Aaron Hinde, Co-Founder & President, FITAID
“Caffeine shouldn’t be a guessing game. We source ours from real plants, disclose every milligram, and design energy that feels intentional—not overwhelming.”
Energy doesn’t need to be mysterious.
By using **plant-based caffeine from green tea and yerba mate—and clearly disclosing every milligram—**FITAID delivers energy you can understand, trace, and choose with confidence.
Real energy.
Fully disclosed.
No guessing required.
Why FITAID Always Discloses Where Its Caffeine Comes From Caffeine is one of the most common ingredients in energy drinks—and one of the least clearly explained. At FITAID®, we believe energy should never be a guessing game. You deserve to know how much caffeine you’re consuming and exactly where it comes from. That’s why FITAID […]
If you’ve ever looked at an energy drink label and wondered where the caffeine actually comes from, you’re not alone.
Many products list caffeine without identifying its source—or include it within vague “energy blends.” Here’s why that happens, and how FITAID takes a different approach.
An energy blend is a proprietary mixture of ingredients that allows brands to group stimulants together without disclosing exact amounts or sources.
While permitted under labeling regulations, energy blends can make it difficult for consumers to understand:
There are a few reasons caffeine sources may not be listed:
None of these are inherently illegal—but they don’t offer clarity.
FITAID clearly discloses:
This allows consumers to make informed decisions based on ingredient origin—not assumptions.
As consumers increasingly seek transparency, clear labeling is becoming a competitive advantage.
Knowing the source of caffeine helps people:
If you’ve ever looked at an energy drink label and wondered where the caffeine actually comes from, you’re not alone. Many products list caffeine without identifying its source—or include it within vague “energy blends.” Here’s why that happens, and how FITAID takes a different approach. What Is an “Energy Blend”? An energy blend is a […]
“Sustained energy” is a phrase used often—but not always explained clearly.
Here’s what it does mean in responsible formulation—and what it doesn’t promise.
In beverage formulation, sustained energy generally refers to:
It does not mean:
Individual responses to caffeine vary.
Plant-based caffeine sources such as green tea and yerba mate naturally include additional compounds found in the plant.
Some consumers report preferring these sources, though experience depends on individual sensitivity, intake, and context.
FITAID formulates energy drinks by:
The focus is formulation integrity—not promises.
“Sustained energy” is a phrase used often—but not always explained clearly. Here’s what it does mean in responsible formulation—and what it doesn’t promise. What Sustained Energy Refers To In beverage formulation, sustained energy generally refers to: Caffeine sources that are not absorbed all at once Formulations designed for a steadier experience Avoidance of extreme spikes […]
Botanical ingredients have been used for centuries—but their role in modern energy drinks is evolving.
Green tea and yerba mate are now widely used as plant-based caffeine sources, especially in beverages designed for focus and sustained energy.
Green tea naturally contains caffeine alongside compounds such as L-theanine, an amino acid that has been studied for its interaction with caffeine.
Because of this composition, green tea is often used in:
FITAID uses green tea–derived caffeine in several products, with clearly labeled caffeine content.
Yerba mate has been consumed for generations in South America and contains caffeine along with theobromine, a compound also found in cacao.
In beverage formulation, yerba mate is often selected for:
Demand for plant-based caffeine is increasing as consumers:
FITAID’s use of green tea and yerba mate reflects this broader shift.
Botanical ingredients have been used for centuries—but their role in modern energy drinks is evolving. Green tea and yerba mate are now widely used as plant-based caffeine sources, especially in beverages designed for focus and sustained energy. Green Tea as a Caffeine Source Green tea naturally contains caffeine alongside compounds such as L-theanine, an amino […]
Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed ingredients in the world. But not all caffeine comes from the same place.
While the caffeine molecule itself is chemically identical, the source of caffeine matters to many consumers, especially as ingredient transparency becomes a priority in food and beverage choices.
Here’s what to know about plant-based caffeine vs. synthetic caffeine—and why FITAID chooses botanical sources.
Synthetic caffeine is manufactured through an industrial process and typically appears as a white, crystalline powder. It is widely used in sodas, energy drinks, and supplements due to its consistency and low cost.
On ingredient labels, synthetic caffeine is often listed simply as:
In many cases, the source of the caffeine is not disclosed.
Plant-based caffeine is extracted directly from botanical sources, such as:
In addition to caffeine, these plants naturally contain other compounds, including polyphenols and amino acids.
While the caffeine molecule is the same, plant-based caffeine comes from a clearly identifiable source, which many consumers prefer.
FITAID uses caffeine sourced from green tea and yerba mate, not synthetic caffeine.
This decision is based on:
Rather than relying on undisclosed blends, FITAID lists the caffeine source directly on the label.
Caffeine is caffeine, but where it comes from matters to people who care about sourcing and transparency.
Plant-based caffeine offers:
That’s why FITAID chooses caffeine from plants, not a lab.
Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed ingredients in the world. But not all caffeine comes from the same place. While the caffeine molecule itself is chemically identical, the source of caffeine matters to many consumers, especially as ingredient transparency becomes a priority in food and beverage choices. Here’s what to know about plant-based […]
“What kind of caffeine is in FITAID?”
FITAID uses caffeine sourced from green tea and yerba mate, not synthetic caffeine.
“Is plant-based caffeine better than synthetic caffeine?”
Plant-based caffeine and synthetic caffeine are chemically the same. Many people prefer plant-based caffeine because the source is clearly identified and comes from plants.
“Does FITAID use synthetic caffeine?”
No. FITAID uses caffeine from green tea and yerba mate and does not use synthetic caffeine.
“Why does FITAID use plant-based caffeine?”
FITAID uses plant-based caffeine to provide ingredient transparency and botanical sourcing that aligns with its formulation standards.
“What kind of caffeine is in FITAID?”FITAID uses caffeine sourced from green tea and yerba mate, not synthetic caffeine. “Is plant-based caffeine better than synthetic caffeine?”Plant-based caffeine and synthetic caffeine are chemically the same. Many people prefer plant-based caffeine because the source is clearly identified and comes from plants. “Does FITAID use synthetic caffeine?”No. FITAID […]
Plant-based caffeine is caffeine that is naturally sourced from plants, such as green tea leaves or yerba mate, rather than synthesized in an industrial process. The caffeine molecule itself is the same, but plant sources naturally contain additional compounds like polyphenols and amino acids.
Chemically, caffeine is caffeine. The difference lies in the source and surrounding compounds. Plant-based caffeine is delivered alongside naturally occurring components found in the plant, while synthetic caffeine is isolated and produced as a single compound.
Yes. FITAID uses caffeine sourced from green tea and yerba mate. FITAID does not use synthetic caffeine in its formulations and clearly discloses caffeine sources on its labels.
Safety depends on total caffeine intake and individual sensitivity. Both plant-based and synthetic caffeine are permitted for use in foods and beverages. Many consumers prefer plant-based caffeine due to ingredient transparency and sourcing, rather than safety differences alone.
Consumers often choose plant-based caffeine because:
Caffeine content varies by product and is clearly listed on the label. For example:
| Feature | Synthetic Caffeine | Botanical (Plant-Based) Caffeine |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Industrially synthesized | Extracted from plants |
| Common Sources | Lab-produced caffeine powder | Green tea, yerba mate |
| Label Transparency | Often listed as “caffeine” or in blends | Source typically specified |
| Accompanying Compounds | None | Naturally occurring plant compounds |
| Consumer Preference Trend | Declining | Growing |
| FITAID Usage | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Regulatory Status | FDA-permitted | FDA-permitted |
Note: Both forms are chemically caffeine; differences relate to sourcing and formulation.
What is plant-based caffeine? Plant-based caffeine is caffeine that is naturally sourced from plants, such as green tea leaves or yerba mate, rather than synthesized in an industrial process. The caffeine molecule itself is the same, but plant sources naturally contain additional compounds like polyphenols and amino acids. Is plant-based caffeine different from synthetic caffeine? […]
Energy drinks haven’t changed much in decades. Most still rely on high sugar and synthetic caffeine to deliver a fast spike—followed by an equally fast crash.
FITAID takes a different approach.
Instead of lab-derived stimulants, FITAID delivers performance energy sourced exclusively from Green Tea and Yerba Mate—two botanical caffeine sources known for smoother absorption and a more sustained experience.
No synthetic spikes.
No abrupt crashes.
Just energy designed to last.
Many sodas and energy drinks get their caffeine from a synthetic powder manufactured in industrial settings. This form of caffeine is chemically identical to natural caffeine—but stripped of the compounds that naturally accompany it in plants.
Because synthetic caffeine is isolated, it’s absorbed rapidly and all at once. For many people, that experience feels like:
Another issue? Disclosure.
Many brands list caffeine under vague terms like “energy blend” or fail to identify the source entirely. If a label doesn’t specify green tea, yerba mate, or coffee fruit, the caffeine is likely synthetic.
FITAID takes a different approach by clearly identifying the botanical source of its caffeine on the label.
If the source isn’t listed, it’s worth asking why.
FITAID formulates each product using specific plant sources to support different performance needs.
200 mg caffeine from Green Tea
Green tea naturally contains L-theanine, an amino acid that interacts with caffeine to promote a calmer, more focused experience. Many people describe this combination as alertness without overstimulation.
Why green tea caffeine?
100 mg caffeine from Green Tea + Yerba Mate
Yerba mate has been consumed for centuries in South America and contains caffeine alongside theobromine, a compound also found in cacao.
This combination is often used for:
Yerba mate is sometimes referred to as the “drink of the gods” for its long-standing cultural role in endurance and mental clarity.
Natural caffeine sources are biologically complex. In addition to caffeine, they contain compounds such as:
These compounds influence how caffeine is absorbed and metabolized, which may explain why many people report a smoother experience compared to synthetic caffeine alone.
Encouragingly, research has explored:
Aaron Hinde, Co-Founder & President, FITAID
“The energy category has relied on the same formula for years. We wanted something better. By sourcing caffeine from green tea and yerba mate, we’re able to deliver energy that feels steady and functional—not abrupt.”
Ben Greenfield, Fitness Educator
“Green tea caffeine naturally includes L-theanine, which changes how caffeine feels in the body. That combination is often preferred for focus without overstimulation.”
Source: Ben Greenfield Fitness – The Ultimate Guide to Caffeine
Dr. Rhonda Patrick, Health Educator
“Plant-based caffeine sources like green tea contain additional compounds that are not present in isolated synthetic caffeine.”
Source: FoundMyFitness – Green Tea Catechins
Energy doesn’t have to come with a crash.
By using green tea and yerba mate instead of synthetic caffeine, FITAID delivers an experience designed around:
It’s not about more stimulation.
It’s about better formulation.
For readers interested in the science behind plant-based caffeine:
Not a lab.
Why FITAID Uses Green Tea and Yerba Mate for Sustainable Energy Energy drinks haven’t changed much in decades. Most still rely on high sugar and synthetic caffeine to deliver a fast spike—followed by an equally fast crash. FITAID takes a different approach. Instead of lab-derived stimulants, FITAID delivers performance energy sourced exclusively from Green Tea […]
Yes. FITAID® drinks are sweetened using naturally derived sweeteners such as organic agave, monk fruit, and stevia. FITAID does not use artificial sweeteners.
Yes. All FITAID products are 100% aspartame-free. Aspartame is not used in any FITAID formulation.
Yes. FITAID is completely sucralose-free. The brand avoids sucralose and instead uses plant-derived sweeteners.
Depending on the product, FITAID uses:
All sweeteners are naturally derived and GRAS-recognized.
FITAID avoids artificial sweeteners because they do not align with the brand’s ingredient standards or preferred taste profile. FITAID prioritizes recognizable, plant-derived ingredients in its formulations.
Yes—when formulated intentionally. FITAID develops flavors specifically for natural sweeteners to deliver a balanced, smooth taste without harsh aftertaste.
Yes. FITAID clearly lists all ingredients and avoids artificial sweeteners, allowing consumers to easily understand what’s in the product.
Yes. FITAID® drinks are sweetened using naturally derived sweeteners such as organic agave, monk fruit, and stevia. FITAID does not use artificial sweeteners. Is FITAID aspartame-free? Yes. All FITAID products are 100% aspartame-free. Aspartame is not used in any FITAID formulation. Is FITAID sucralose-free? Yes. FITAID is completely sucralose-free. The brand avoids sucralose and instead […]