Does Squirt Have Caffeine? The Clear Answer + Variant Guide

Last updated on July 25th, 2025 at 02:58 am

Does Squirt Have Caffeine? 

Original Squirt is 100% caffeine‑free (0 mg per 12 oz), while Ruby Red and Citrus Power variants contain around 39 mg per can.

If you’ve ever cracked open a Squirt and wondered, “Is this giving me a caffeine kick?”—you’re not alone.

The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no. It depends entirely on which Squirt you’re drinking.

Confused by conflicting labels and flavor names like “Ruby Red” or “Citrus Power”? You’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll break down the exact caffeine in Squirt soda, expose the differences between each version, and help you pick the one that fits your lifestyle.

Whether you’re avoiding caffeine altogether—or just want to know what’s in your can—this article gives you the facts, fast.

What Is Squirt? (Brand & Variants Overview)

If you’re trying to figure out which Squirt has caffeine, understanding the product line is step one.

Some versions of Squirt are completely caffeine-free. Others—like Ruby Red or Citrus Power—pack a surprising buzz.

Let’s quickly break down where Squirt came from and how its flavors differ so you don’t get caught off guard by a caffeinated can.

Origins of Squirt Soda

Squirt launched in 1938 in Phoenix, Arizona. It was one of the first sodas to feature grapefruit flavor and was marketed as a refreshing alternative to sweeter colas.

Over the decades, Squirt became a staple in the citrus soda category.

Today, it’s owned by Keurig Dr Pepper, which also distributes brands like Dr Pepper and 7UP.

Despite its long history, there’s still confusion around whether Squirt is caffeinated—mostly because of its newer flavor variants.

Squirt Product Line: Know the Difference

Not all Squirts are created equal.

Here’s what’s currently in the lineup:

• Original Squirt – Grapefruit flavor, 100% caffeine-free.

• Squirt Zero Sugar – Same citrus taste with zero sugar and still caffeine-free.

• Ruby Red Squirt – A bolder, berry-citrus mix that contains caffeine.

• Diet Ruby Red Squirt – Diet version of the Ruby Red, also contains caffeine.

• Squirt Citrus Power – An energy soda hybrid with caffeine and added taurine (now discontinued).

Each flavor offers a different experience—and caffeine content. So let’s get specific.

Read Also:

👉 Does Gatorade Zero Have Caffeine?
👉 Does Ginger Ale Have Caffeine?

Caffeine Content by Squirt Variant

This is where things get clear.

If you want to avoid caffeine, you need to know which versions to choose (and which to avoid). Here’s the breakdown.

Original Squirt (Grapefruit): 0 mg Caffeine

This is the classic. Original Squirt delivers that crisp grapefruit flavor without a single milligram of caffeine.

It’s one of the few sodas on the market that is both citrusy and caffeine-free, making it a safe choice for kids or anyone trying to stay stimulant-free.

Ruby Red (and Diet Ruby Red): ~39 mg Caffeine per 12 oz

This is where the caffeine shows up.

Ruby Red Squirt adds a berry-like flavor and a noticeable kick—about 39 mg of caffeine per 12 oz.

That’s slightly more than Coca-Cola (~34 mg per 12 oz) and enough to give you a mild lift.

The Diet Ruby Red version contains the same amount of caffeine, just with fewer calories.

Squirt Citrus Power (Discontinued): Moderate Caffeine + Energy Additives

Citrus Power was a short-lived attempt to join the energy drink craze.

It combined Squirt’s citrus base with caffeine, taurine, and B-vitamins, putting it in the same arena as energy sodas like Mountain Dew Amp.

It’s no longer in active production, but it’s still worth knowing—especially if you stumble upon an old bottle or listing online.

Quick Reference Table: Squirt Variants & Caffeine Content

Knowing the exact caffeine in Squirt soda helps you make smarter choices—whether you’re avoiding stimulants or looking for a gentle pick‑me‑up.

How Much Is 39 mg Caffeine? Health Context

Ruby Red Squirt contains about 39 mg of caffeine per 12 oz—but what does that really mean for your health?

Let’s break it down.

Is 39 mg a Lot of Caffeine?

Not really.

Here’s how 39 mg compares to other popular drinks:

• Coca-Cola (12 oz): ~34 mg

• Pepsi (12 oz): ~38 mg

• Mountain Dew (12 oz): ~54 mg

• Red Bull (8.4 oz): ~80 mg

• Monster Energy (16 oz): ~160 mg

Bottom line: Ruby Red Squirt has mild caffeine, similar to cola but way less than energy drinks.

Daily Caffeine Limits You Should Know

According to Health Canada and other health agencies:

• Adults: up to 400 mg/day is generally safe

• Teens (13–18): max of 2.5 mg per kg of body weight

  (For example, a 50 kg teen should have no more than ~125 mg/day)

• Children (12 and under): caffeine is not recommended

One can of Ruby Red Squirt is well within safe limits for most adults—but caution is needed for kids and teens.

Who Should Avoid Ruby Red?

Ruby Red Squirt is not ideal if you:

• Are caffeine-sensitive (even small amounts can trigger jitters or insomnia)

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding (recommended max: 200 mg/day)

• Have heart or sleep issues

• Are serving the drink to children

 In these cases, stick to Original Squirt or Squirt Zero Sugar, which are both caffeine-free sodas.

Comparing Squirt to Other Sodas

Still not sure where Squirt stands?

Here’s how it compares to other common soft drinks—in both caffeine and sugar.

Caffeine & Sugar Comparison: Quick View

If you’re looking for a caffeine-free soda, Original Squirt is your go-to.

If you want light caffeine but love citrus or grapefruit soda, Ruby Red is your middle ground.

Key Takeaways for Your Health

• Ruby Red Squirt has moderate caffeine—similar to cola, safe for most adults

• Original Squirt is caffeine-free, better for kids or caffeine-sensitive individuals

• Sugar content is comparable to other sodas—watch your intake if managing calories or blood sugar

By knowing what’s in your can, you can enjoy Squirt without second-guessing the impact on your energy—or your health.

Why the Confusion? Misleading Claims & Myths

It’s easy to get misled—even some well-known blogs get it wrong.

For example, Umamicart incorrectly states that Original Squirt contains caffeine (source). This causes unnecessary panic for caffeine-avoidant readers.

In reality, the confusion usually comes down to this:

• Original = caffeine-free

• Ruby Red = caffeinated

• Citrus Power = discontinued energy variant

Even Soda Wiki and Kiddle have mixed explanations about different flavors.

Real People, Real Misconceptions

Here’s a Reddit comment that captures the confusion:

“Finally found Ruby Red Squirt. It’s tasty, but the caffeine surprised me—I thought Squirt was always caffeine-free.”
— u/sodadrinker2020

These misunderstandings highlight why clear labeling and variant awareness matter.

How to Choose Based on Your Needs

Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right Squirt:

Avoiding caffeine?

Stick with Original Squirt or Squirt Zero Sugar—both have 0 mg caffeine.

Want a light energy boost?

Go for Ruby Red or Diet Ruby Red—they contain ~39 mg of caffeine per 12 oz.

Drinking soda near bedtime or serving it to kids?

Skip Ruby Red. Choose caffeine-free options to stay safe and sleep soundly.

Summary Table (TL;DR)

Here’s a quick visual to wrap things up: