Caffeinated mints are breath mints that contain caffeine, and may contain other additional stimulant supplements, such as taurine, B vitamins, or ginseng. These mints are generally marketed as an energy-boosting alternative to caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, energy drinks, or tea. Some people find that caffeinated mints are an easier quick energy boost than beverages, because they are generally quite easy to keep on hand. The small packages can usually be carried in a pocket or handbag. Caffeinated mints may vary in caffeine content, but some brands contain about the same amount of caffeine as the average cup of coffee.
Most types of caffeinated mints are flavored with peppermint. Some mints contain as little as 5 milligrams of caffeine, while stronger brands can contain as much as 100 milligrams of caffeine, making them about as strong as a cup of coffee, two cups of black tea or three 12-ounce (0.35 liter) cans of caffeinated soda.
Most energy candies also contain other ingredients said to increase energy, as well as mental and physical performance. Ginseng and taurine are often added to caffeinated mints. Some companies also add B vitamins, which are said to increase energy and endurance, and may also help to support good health.
These mints are typically marketed to athletes, long-distance drivers, students, and commuters as a means of procuring quick energy. They are often touted as a low-calorie alternative to the kinds of sugary snacks busy people may turn to for quick energy, when there isn't enough time for a cup of coffee or another caffeinated beverage. Their size makes them easy to carry in a pocket or handbag, so they're generally considered more accessible than more traditional sources of caffeine, such as coffee, tea, or energy drinks. A package of caffeinated mints is often comparable in price to a cup of coffee, an energy drink or a bottle of soda, so that they are often more affordable as well as more convenient.
In addition to their convenience and possible invigorating qualities, caffeinated mints also generally claim to sweeten and freshen the breath, just as most breath mints have always claimed to do. There are a number of caffeinated candies, foods, and drinks now available, but many of them don't offer breath-freshening properties.
