How this calculator works
Each selected product uses Health Canada's average caffeine amount for the stated serving, multiplied by servings and added. Use the known-intake mode for energy drinks, espresso or products with a label value; recipes and brewing change caffeine substantially. Health Canada lists 400 mg daily for adults and 300 mg for pregnancy, breastfeeding or planning pregnancy. Its precautionary child and adolescent reference is 2.5 mg per kilogram daily, based on limited evidence. A value below the reference does not guarantee that caffeine is suitable for an individual. The result is an estimate for information only and is not medical advice.
Formula
Total caffeine = sum of servings x caffeine per serving. Youth reference = 2.5 mg/kg x body weight. Reference fraction = intake / daily reference. Servings = known caffeine / caffeine per serving.
Worked example
Two 237 mL servings of brewed coffee at 135 mg each plus one 28 g sweet chocolate serving at 19 mg give 289 mg, or 72.25% of the 400 mg adult reference. A 40 kg youth reference is 100 mg.
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Frequently asked questions
Why is my coffee label different?
The listed amounts are averages. Serving size, beans and brewing vary. Prefer a reliable product label and use known-intake mode.
Is 400 mg recommended for everyone?
No. It is an adult population reference maximum, not a daily requirement. Sensitivity, medication use and medical circumstances can call for a lower intake.
Does the youth result recommend caffeine for children?
No. It only calculates Health Canada's precautionary reference. It does not endorse caffeine use or calculate a dose for infants.