Monster Energy beverages have been available since 2002 but many people are still not aware of the Monster Energy Drink ingredients or how they provide an energy boost. Monster energy is distributed by Hansen Natural, part of Corona, California. There are a growing number of variant flavors and formulas as the company strives to make the best energy drink possible.

The Main Ingredient

The base of Monster energy drinks is simple carbonated water. This gives the fizzy texture of the drink. Sucrose and glucose are types of sugar, included at a rate of 27g per 8 fluid ounces or 250ml of fluid. The sugar content provides energy as it is converted into carbohydrates in the body.

Monster Energy Drink Ingredients

Amino Acids

Taurine is an amino acid and a synthetic form is found in most energy drinks, including Monster. Taurine is found in the body naturally. It was originally extracted from ox bile, which is where taurine gets its name, from the Latin ‘taurus’ meaning bull. The form of taurine found in energy drinks is synthesized in a laboratory and despite rumors, is unrelated to the reproductive organs of the bull. The form found in energy drinks is vegetarian friendly. The nutritional benefits of taurine in humans is unknown but it has no negative effects. L-Carnitine is another amino acid usually present in the liver and kidneys. It helps with energy levels and can increase metabolism. As a supplement it may help with weight loss during exercise.

Stimulants

Energy drinks work by containing stimulants which aid in enhancing wakefulness and alertness. The combination of stimulants in energy drinks are concentrated and combined to maximize these effects. The main stimulants in Monster are caffeine and panax ginseng root extract. Caffeine is one of the most common stimulants found in tea, coffee, chocolate and many other food and beverages. It is usually present in energy drinks at a concentration of around 160mg per 16oz of drink. Ginseng root is thought to be a nutritional stimulant with other therapeutic effects. Guarana seed is also included in the recipe. Guarana beans have a high concentration of caffeine, however the stimulating effects may differ from that of coffee. Some people report Guarana to be more effect whilst others claim coffee is more beneficial.

B Vitamins

B vitamins help the body to convert food to energy. The amounts found in energy drinks may help the body to provide more energy but this is not confirmed. Niacinamide and riboflavin are some of the B vitamins found in Monster.

Preservatives

Monster Energy Drink ingredients like every other energy drink contains preservatives such as Sorbic Acid, Benzoic Acid and Sodium chloride also known as salt. These preservatives help keep the drink stable when it is on the shelves. This means it can be stored for long periods without turning bad.