• by Teresa Buyikian , February 26, 2024

As the weather starts to warm up, Dunkin’ is launching a new beverage line to help customers cool down.

The coffee chain announced a new line of iced drinks, Sparkd’ Energy by Dunkin’. The fruit-flavored carbonated energy drink is made with “vitamins, minerals and a kick of caffeine,” according to the release. The new line is now available in two flavors: Berry Burst, described as combining raspberry and strawberry flavors, and Peach Sunshine, which brings together lychee and peach tastes. 

 Per Dunkin’s website, the large size of the new cool concoction contains 192 mg of caffeine.

Adults can safely consume 400 mg of caffeine each day, according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), per medical information website VeryWellHealth.com.

By the very nature of Dunkin’ as coffee and light food that customers grab on the run, the chain may avoid issues experienced by fast-casuals selling similar highly caffeinated beverages. No free refills at Dunkin’ -- unlike at Panera, which offers a large 30-ounce Charged Lemonade containing 236 milligrams of caffeine with free refills on-site. Panera has experienced ongoing controversy regarding its caffeinated lemonade beverages, and, per USA Today, have been “accused of causing serious physical harm to customers who consumed them, even allegedly resulting in death.” The article continues, “While warnings about the product have since been added in-store and online by the company, the drinks are still available for purchase.”

SPARKD’ Energy Drinks and the full spring menu will be available for a limited time at all Dunkin’ restaurants nationwide.

 For those still in the winter cold, Dunkin’ has also added two new sweet beverages to help warm up. The Churro Signature Latte, available hot or iced, consists of espresso with churro flavor, topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle and cinnamon sugar. The Cinnamon Vanilla Coffee, also available hot or iced, contains Dunkin’s original coffee and cream with combined churro and vanilla flavors. To continue the churro theme, Dunkin has also added a new Churro Donut  a deep-fried cake donut rolled in cinnamon sugar creating a crunchy, churro-like exterior.