Guarana Extract
Guarana extract is a concentrated source of caffeine that can contribute to total daily caffeine intake, with EFSA noting single doses above 200 mg or daily intake above 400 mg in adults may raise safety concerns. Cardiovascular effects (increased heart rate, blood pressure) and sleep disturbance are dose-dependent.
What it is
Extract from the seeds of Paullinia cupana, a Brazilian climbing plant; rich in caffeine (typically 2-8% by weight, 4-6x that of coffee beans).
Stimulant and flavoring agent supplying caffeine; used in energy drinks, supplements, and some confectionery.
Why it's flagged
- caffeine contribution to total intake
- cardiovascular effects at high doses
- interactions with stimulants
What regulators actually say
"Single doses of caffeine up to 200 mg and habitual caffeine consumption up to 400 mg per day from all sources do not raise safety concerns for adults in the general population."
"For healthy adults, the FDA has cited 400 milligrams a day—that's about four or five cups of coffee—as an amount not generally associated with dangerous, negative effects."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
GRAS as a flavoring; caffeine content contributes to overall caffeine load (FDA recommends ≤400 mg/day caffeine for healthy adults)
European Union — EFSA
EFSA Scientific Opinion on caffeine safety (2015) sets reference doses; guarana caffeine counted toward total
Scan it before you buy it
Get Ube on iOS or Android — point at any barcode, see what's actually in there.
Get the app