Does Ginger Ale Have Caffeine? (Brand Guide & Label Tips)

Last updated on July 26th, 2025 at 02:28 pm

Does Ginger Ale Have Caffeine?

Most ginger ale brands are caffeine-free — including popular names like Canada Dry, Schweppes, and Seagram’s.

But here’s what most people miss: some lesser-known brands, like Bawls and Ale‑8‑One, do contain caffeine — sometimes as much as a small cup of coffee.

If you’re caffeine-sensitive, pregnant, or just trying to cut back, knowing which to avoid matters more than you think.

In this guide, you’ll discover exactly which ginger ales are safe, which ones sneak in caffeine, and how to tell the difference — fast.

What Is Ginger Ale?

Ginger ale is a carbonated soft drink flavored primarily with ginger root or synthetic ginger flavoring.

It’s typically caffeine-free, light in taste, and often used as a mixer or a remedy for nausea and stomach upset.

There are two main types of ginger ale — and they’re not created equal.

Golden vs. Dry Ginger Ale

Golden Ginger Ale

• Stronger, spicier, and closer to real ginger taste.

• Originated in the 1800s with Dr. Thomas Cantrell, an Irish apothecary.

• Less common today, but still found in niche markets and specialty stores.

Dry Ginger Ale

• Milder, sweeter, and more carbonated.

• Developed by Canadian pharmacist John McLaughlin in the early 1900s — the same founder of Canada Dry.

• Became the industry standard because it’s more palatable to mass audiences.

Key takeaway: Most of what’s sold in stores today is dry ginger ale — light, crisp, and caffeine-free.

Common Uses & Perceived Health Benefits

Ginger ale isn’t just a soft drink — many people turn to it for relief.

Here’s how it’s often used:

• Nausea relief – a go-to remedy for upset stomachs, especially during travel or pregnancy.

• Hydration – for people recovering from illness or dehydration.

• Mixers – commonly paired with whiskey, vodka, or rum.

However, not all ginger ales contain real ginger. Some are flavored artificially, meaning their health benefits are minimal.

Does Ginger Ale Contain Caffeine?

The short answer: Most ginger ale brands are naturally caffeine-free.

That includes household names like:

• Canada Dry

• Schweppes

• Seagram’s

• Vernors

These sodas rely on carbonation and ginger flavoring — not tea leaves or cola nut extract — which is why they don’t contain caffeine.

Plus, manufacturers position ginger ale as a calming, stomach-friendly drink — adding caffeine would go against its soothing image.

Rare Exceptions With Added Caffeine

While 90% of ginger ales are caffeine-free, a few brands do add caffeine — sometimes intentionally for an energy kick.

Here are two standouts:

• Bawls Guarana Ginger: ~102 mg of caffeine per 16 oz.

  • Contains guarana extract (a natural source of caffeine).

• Ale‑8‑One: ~37–44 mg of caffeine per 12 oz.

  • Marketed as a regional ginger soda with a secret citrus blend.

Important: These aren’t your average grocery store finds — but they do show up online or in specialty shops.

Final Word

If you’re avoiding caffeine, stick with trusted names like Canada Dry or Seagram’s. But always check the label — especially with new or craft brands.

Even one surprise can throw off your goals.

Brand-by-Brand Comparison Table (Caffeine Content)

Not all ginger ales are created equal — but when it comes to caffeine content, most mainstream brands stay consistent.

Popular Caffeine-Free Ginger Ale Brands

The majority of ginger ale sold today is naturally caffeine-free. Here’s how the top brands stack up:

These brands are safe choices for caffeine-sensitive people.

Specialty Ginger Ales With Caffeine

A few outliers do contain caffeine — often marketed as energy sodas or regional drinks.

Tip: These aren’t common at your local grocery store — but if you’re shopping online or at specialty retailers, always double-check the label.

Why Do People Ask This Question?

Most people aren’t just curious — they’re cautious. Here’s why this keyword gets so much attention:

Caffeine Sensitivity (Pregnancy, Heart Issues, Anxiety)

For anyone avoiding stimulants, caffeine matters.

• Pregnant individuals are often told to limit or avoid caffeine altogether.

• People with heart conditions or anxiety may feel jittery or lightheaded after even small amounts.

• Parents may want to avoid giving children any caffeinated drinks at all.

That’s why knowing for sure if your ginger ale is caffeine-free is more than trivia — it’s essential.

Nausea Relief and Ginger Ale’s “Healing” Reputation

Ginger ale is often used as a home remedy for:

• Motion sickness

• Morning sickness during pregnancy

• Indigestion and gas

• General nausea from illness

But here’s the catch:

Not all ginger ales contain real ginger.

Some use artificial flavoring with zero medicinal benefit. Others contain small amounts of ginger extract — usually not enough for full relief.

How to Read the Label for Caffeine and Ingredients

Want to be 100% sure? Read the packaging — here’s how:

1. Check the nutrition label
   Look for a “Caffeine” section (often listed in milligrams). If it’s not mentioned, it likely contains 0 mg — but not always.

2. Scan the ingredients list
   Avoid terms like “guarana” or “cola nut,” which indicate added caffeine.

3. Look for claims like “Caffeine-Free”
   Most major brands say it clearly on the front or near the nutrition panel.

4. Visit the brand’s website
   If you’re still unsure, check their official FAQ page or nutrition disclosures.

Bonus: Use resources like Caffeine Gurus or The Takeout to cross-check niche or craft soda brands.

Read Also:

👉 Does HI-C Have Caffeine?

Ginger Ale vs. Other Soft Drinks (Comparisons & Caffeine Clarity)

If you’re watching your caffeine intake, comparing ginger ale to other sodas is a smart move.

Here’s how ginger ale stacks up against similar carbonated drinks.

Ginger Ale vs. Ginger Beer

They sound the same — but they’re not.

Ginger beer is bolder, spicier, and often brewed through natural fermentation.
Ginger ale is sweeter, milder, and usually carbonated with CO₂ like other sodas.

In terms of caffeine? Most ginger beers are caffeine-free, just like ginger ale.

Important distinction: Some craft ginger beers may contain trace alcohol (especially imported ones), while ginger ale is always non-alcoholic.

Ginger Ale vs. Root Beer, Cola, and Lemon-Lime Sodas

Now let’s compare ginger ale to other classic sodas.

• Root Beer: Usually caffeine-free — except Barq’s, which has ~22 mg per can.

• Cola: Always contains caffeine unless labeled “caffeine-free” (Coke: ~34 mg; Pepsi: ~38 mg per 12 oz).

• Lemon-Lime Sodas (e.g., Sprite, 7Up): Typically caffeine-free across brands.

Tip: If you’re replacing colas with ginger ale to cut caffeine, you’re making the right move — but double-check specialty root beers or flavored colas.

Key Takeaways & Final Thoughts

• Most ginger ales are caffeine-free — including all major brands.

• A few rare varieties, like Bawls and Ale-8-One, do contain caffeine.

• Always read the label — especially with craft or regional sodas.

• If you’re drinking ginger ale for nausea relief, make sure it contains real ginger.

FAQs

Does Canada Dry Ginger Ale Have Caffeine?

No. Canada Dry is completely caffeine-free, including its original, diet, and bold varieties.

It’s one of the most trusted options for caffeine-sensitive drinkers.

Is Ginger Ale Caffeine-Free in All Countries?

Yes — for the most part.

Major brands like Schweppes, Seagram’s, and Vernors produce caffeine-free ginger ale worldwide. But if you’re abroad and buying a local or unfamiliar brand, always check the label to be sure.

Can Diet or Zero-Sugar Ginger Ale Contain Caffeine?

Most diet or zero-calorie ginger ales are still caffeine-free.

However, some brands may add caffeine to enhance taste or offset the missing sugar.
Also, ingredients like guarana, green tea extract, or cola flavorings may sneak caffeine into diet sodas.

Will Ginger Ale Help With Nausea if There’s No Real Ginger?

Not really.

If your ginger ale doesn’t contain real ginger root or extract, it likely won’t deliver the anti-nausea benefits you’re looking for.

 Look for ingredients like:

• “Ginger root extract”

• “Natural ginger flavor”

• Or branding that says “made with real ginger”

Better yet, try ginger teas or chews for more effective relief.

How to Choose a Caffeine-Free Carbonated Drink?

Here’s how to shop smart:

• Stick with clear sodas like Sprite, ginger ale, and tonic water

• Avoid dark colas and root beers unless marked “caffeine-free”

• Read the nutrition panel — caffeine content is often listed

• Watch for ingredients like guarana, green tea, or cola nut

When in doubt, go with brands you know, or search their websites for caffeine info.