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Instant coffee caffeine
Instant coffee contains 62 mg of caffeine per 240 ml mug (USDA FoodData Central: coffee, instant, prepared). How it compares with the EFSA daily guidance, and where the figure comes from.
One rounded teaspoon of granules.
Caffeine affects people differently — body weight, habits, medication and pregnancy all change the picture. If you are pregnant, EFSA's figure is up to 200 mg a day. Heart-rhythm conditions and anxiety disorders are reasons to talk to a clinician, not to a table.
Where the figure comes from
USDA FoodData Central: coffee, instant, prepared
Against the daily guidance
| Reference | Limit | This drink |
|---|---|---|
| EFSA daily reference, healthy adults | 400 mg | under the line |
| EFSA single-dose reference | 200 mg | under the line |
| EFSA daily reference in pregnancy | 200 mg | under the line |
Sources: USDA FoodData Central · EFSA 2015 — scientific opinion on the safety of caffeine · checked 2026-09-03
Frequently asked questions
How much caffeine is in instant coffee?
62 mg per 240 ml mug, per USDA FoodData Central: coffee, instant, prepared.
Is instant coffee a lot of caffeine?
Not against the EFSA reference points: up to 400 mg a day and up to 200 mg per sitting is considered safe for healthy adults.
Does instant coffee vary between batches?
Yes — every caffeinated drink varies with ingredients and preparation. This figure is a published reference point, not a measurement of your cup.
Brewed (filter) coffee
95 mg per 240 ml mug
Espresso
63 mg per 30 ml shot
Decaffeinated coffee
2 mg per 240 ml mug
Cold brew
100-200 mg per 240 ml
Black tea
47 mg per 240 ml mug
Green tea
28 mg per 240 ml mug
Count the coffees, keep the sleep
TempoLife tracks caffeine, meals and sleep in one place — so you can see which cup is the one that keeps you up.