Caffeine

Caffeine (CAS 58-08-2) is a naturally occurring purine alkaloid found in coffee, tea, cacao, and guarana, also known by the synonyms theine, guaranine, and methyltheobromine. It is not assigned an E-number under EU food additive regulations but is regulated as a flavouring substance and declared on labels when added to foods and beverages.

In food and beverage manufacturing, caffeine functions as a bittering agent in cola-type drinks and energy beverages, contributing to flavour balance at concentrations typically between 150 and 320 mg per litre. In pharmaceutical applications, it acts as a CNS stimulant and is formulated into analgesic combinations and neonatal apnoea treatments, where it enhances the efficacy of co-active compounds.

Caffeine is commercially available in anhydrous powder form to Ph.Eur., USP, and FCC specifications, supporting both pharmaceutical and food-grade procurement. It falls under REACH registration requirements within the EU. Packaging is typically supplied in fibre drums or multi-layer bags ranging from 25 kg units.