Does Hi-C Have Caffeine? Orange, Fruit Punch, Lemonade & McDonald’s Hi-C Explained

You grab a cold Hi-C from the fridge or order it with your meal at a restaurant, take a sip, and enjoy that sweet, fruity taste. Later, you wonder—was there caffeine in that drink? This question comes up often, especially for parents choosing drinks for their children, individuals sensitive to caffeine, or anyone monitoring their intake.

Many people assume that any drink providing a burst of energy must contain caffeine. The sweet flavor of Hi-C can feel refreshing and energizing, especially on a hot day. But the energy you feel comes from something else entirely. No, Hi-C does not contain caffeine in any of its flavors or varieties. All Hi-C products—from Orange Lavaburst to Flashin’ Fruit Punch, from juice boxes to McDonald’s fountain drinks—are completely caffeine-free.

Understanding what’s actually in your drink helps you make informed choices for yourself and your family. This guide covers everything you need to know about Hi-C, its ingredients, nutrition facts, and availability at restaurants.

For a complete overview of beverages and their ingredients, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Does Hi-C Have Caffeine?

Question	Answer
Does Hi-C contain caffeine?	No. All Hi-C products are completely caffeine-free.
Does McDonald’s Hi-C have caffeine?	No. McDonald’s serves the same caffeine-free Hi-C formula.
Does Hi-C Orange Lavaburst have caffeine?	No. Orange Lavaburst contains zero caffeine.
Does Hi-C Fruit Punch have caffeine?	No. Flashin’ Fruit Punch is caffeine-free.
Does Hi-C Lemonade have caffeine?	No. Poppin’ Lemonade contains no caffeine.
Does Waffle House serve Hi-C?	Waffle House offers a variety of caffeine-free beverages including soft drinks, juices, and milk. Visit the beverages menu for options.
Why does Hi-C give me energy?	The energy comes from sugar, not caffeine.
Is Hi-C safe for children?	Yes, it contains no caffeine, but sugar content should be moderated.
What are the main ingredients?	Water, high fructose corn syrup, fruit juices from concentrate, and vitamin C.

For a complete list of caffeine-free beverages at restaurants, check the Waffle House beverages menu.

What Is Hi-C? A Brand Overview

Hi-C is a fruit drink brand manufactured by the Coca-Cola Company. It first hit the market in 1946 as an orange-flavored drink created specifically to give children a tasty source of vitamin C.

The Name Explained

The name “Hi-C” comes from its original purpose—”Hi” for high and “C” for vitamin C content. This marketing positioned the drink as a healthier alternative to soda, offering essential vitamins without caffeine.

Brand Evolution

Decade	Development
1940s	Launch of original orange drink
1950s–1960s	Expansion into multiple flavors
1970s–1980s	Introduction of juice boxes
1990s–2000s	Partnership with McDonald’s for fountain drinks
2010s–Present	Addition of drink mixes and sugar-free options

Today, Hi-C comes in multiple flavors and formats, from classic juice boxes to fountain drinks at fast food restaurants. Its popularity continues due to its sweet taste, affordability, and widespread availability.

For more beverage options at restaurants, explore the Waffle House beverages menu.

Caffeine Content in All Hi-C Flavors

According to official product information from Coca-Cola, caffeine is not listed as an ingredient in any Hi-C product. This applies to every flavor and format.

Hi-C Flavors and Caffeine Status

Flavor	Caffeine Content
Orange Lavaburst	0 mg
Flashin’ Fruit Punch	0 mg
Poppin’ Lemonade	0 mg
Grabbin’ Grape	0 mg
Boppin’ Strawberry	0 mg
Torrential Tropical Punch	0 mg
Strawberry Kiwi Kraze	0 mg
Mashin’ Mango Melon	0 mg

Why This Matters

The absence of caffeine makes Hi-C suitable for:

• Children and teenagers
• Pregnant or nursing women
• People with caffeine sensitivities
• Those with certain medical conditions
• Anyone avoiding caffeine’s effects

For those who do want caffeine, consider Waffle House coffee or other caffeinated beverages.

Hi-C Orange Lavaburst Ingredients and Nutrition

Orange Lavaburst is Hi-C’s flagship flavor and remains the most recognizable product in the lineup.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Orange Lavaburst contains:

• Pure filtered water
• High fructose corn syrup
• Orange and pear juices from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Natural flavors
• Citric acid
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Potassium citrate
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	40
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrates	10g
Total Sugars	10g
Added Sugars	10g
Protein	0g
Potassium	50mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Orange Lavaburst contains 0 mg of caffeine.

For comparison with other orange drinks available at restaurants, visit the beverages menu.

Hi-C Flashin’ Fruit Punch: Ingredients and Nutrition

Flashin’ Fruit Punch is the second most popular Hi-C flavor, known for its bright red color and bold fruit taste.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Flashin’ Fruit Punch contains:

• Pure filtered water
• High fructose corn syrup
• Pineapple and orange juices from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Natural and artificial flavors
• Citric acid
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	40
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	15mg
Total Carbohydrates	11g
Total Sugars	11g
Added Sugars	10g
Protein	0g
Potassium	10mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Flashin’ Fruit Punch contains 0 mg of caffeine.

Hi-C Poppin’ Lemonade: Ingredients and Nutrition

Poppin’ Lemonade offers a tangy alternative to the fruit punch and orange flavors.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	100
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	15mg
Total Carbohydrates	27g
Total Sugars	26g
Protein	0g

Caffeine Content

Poppin’ Lemonade contains 0 mg of caffeine.

For lemonade options at restaurants, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Hi-C Grabbin’ Grape: Ingredients and Nutrition

Grabbin’ Grape offers a sweet grape taste for those who prefer purple drinks.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Grabbin’ Grape contains:

• Pure filtered water
• Pear juice from concentrate
• High fructose corn syrup
• Grape juice from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Natural flavors
• Citric acid
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	40
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	15mg
Total Carbohydrates	11g
Total Sugars	10g
Added Sugars	8g
Protein	0g
Iron	0.1mg
Potassium	10mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Grabbin’ Grape contains 0 mg of caffeine.

Hi-C Boppin’ Strawberry: Ingredients and Nutrition

Boppin’ Strawberry delivers a sweet strawberry flavor in the classic juice box format.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Boppin’ Strawberry contains:

• Pure filtered water
• High fructose corn syrup
• Pear and strawberry juices from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Natural flavors
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Citric acid
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	40
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrates	11g
Total Sugars	11g
Added Sugars	10g
Protein	0g
Potassium	10mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Boppin’ Strawberry contains 0 mg of caffeine.

Hi-C Torrential Tropical Punch: Ingredients and Nutrition

Torrential Tropical Punch offers a tropical twist with pineapple and orange flavors.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Torrential Tropical Punch contains:

• Pure filtered water
• High fructose corn syrup
• Pineapple and orange juices from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Natural and artificial flavors
• Citric acid
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	40
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrates	10g
Total Sugars	10g
Added Sugars	9g
Protein	0g
Potassium	10mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Torrential Tropical Punch contains 0 mg of caffeine.

Hi-C Strawberry Kiwi Kraze: Ingredients and Nutrition

Strawberry Kiwi Kraze combines strawberry and kiwi flavors for a unique taste experience.

Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Strawberry Kiwi Kraze contains:

• Pure filtered water
• Apple juice from concentrate
• High fructose corn syrup
• Pear juice from concentrate
• Less than 0.5% of:
• Strawberry and kiwi juices from concentrate
• Natural flavors
• Citric acid
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
• Sucralose
• Acesulfame potassium

Nutrition Facts (per 6 fl oz drink box)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	50
Total Fat	0g
Sodium	10mg
Total Carbohydrates	13g
Total Sugars	2g
Added Sugars	9g
Protein	0g
Potassium	20mg
Vitamin C	100% DV

Caffeine Content

Strawberry Kiwi Kraze contains 0 mg of caffeine.

Hi-C Drink Mixes: Sugar-Free Options

Hi-C also offers drink mix sticks for on-the-go preparation. These contain zero sugar and are sweetened with artificial sweeteners.

Available Drink Mix Flavors

Flavor	Calories	Sugar	Vitamin C
Mashin’ Mango Melon	5	0g	100% DV
Flashin’ Fruit Punch	5	0g	100% DV
Grabbin’ Grape	5	0g	100% DV

Mashin’ Mango Melon Drink Mix Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Mashin’ Mango Melon drink mix contains:

• Citric acid
• Maltodextrin
• Natural and artificial flavors
• Sucralose
• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
• Sodium citrate
• Contains 2% or less of: salt, acesulfame potassium, cellulose gum, magnesium oxide, pectin, calcium silicate, Red 40, Yellow 6, Yellow 5

Flashin’ Fruit Punch Drink Mix Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Flashin’ Fruit Punch drink mix contains:

• Citric acid
• Maltodextrin
• Natural and artificial flavors
• Sucralose
• Malic acid
• Tartaric acid
• Potassium citrate
• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
• Contains 2% or less of: salt, acesulfame potassium, cellulose gum, pectin, magnesium oxide, calcium silicate, Red 40

Grabbin’ Grape Drink Mix Ingredients

According to Coca-Cola, Grabbin’ Grape drink mix contains:

• Citric acid
• Maltodextrin
• Natural and artificial flavors
• Sucralose
• Potassium citrate
• Ascorbic acid (vitamin C)
• Salt
• Contains 2% or less of: malic acid, tartaric acid, magnesium oxide, acesulfame potassium, cellulose gum, pectin, calcium silicate, Red 40, Blue 1

Caffeine Content

All Hi-C drink mixes contain 0 mg of caffeine.

McDonald’s Hi-C: Sizes, Nutrition, and Availability

McDonald’s has served Hi-C Orange Lavaburst for decades as a non-carbonated alternative to soda. It remains a popular choice for children and adults alike.

McDonald’s Hi-C Sizes and Nutrition

Size	Calories	Total Carbs	Sugar	Sodium	Caffeine
Small	Data varies	Data varies	Data varies	Data varies	0 mg
Medium	230	58g	58g	60mg	0 mg
Large	350	94g	Data varies	10mg	0 mg

McDonald’s Medium Hi-C Orange Lavaburst

According to nutrition data, a medium Hi-C Orange Lavaburst at McDonald’s contains:

• Calories: 230
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 60mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 58g
• Sugar: 58g
• Protein: 0g
• Potassium: 30mg
• Caffeine: 0 mg

McDonald’s Large Hi-C Orange Lavaburst

According to nutrition data, a large Hi-C Orange Lavaburst at McDonald’s contains:

• Calories: 350
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 10mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 94g
• Sugar: Data not specified
• Protein: 0g
• Caffeine: 0 mg

Why McDonald’s Sizes Matter

The calorie and sugar content increases significantly with size. A large McDonald’s Hi-C contains 350 calories and 94g of carbohydrates, all from sugar. This is equivalent to approximately 23 teaspoons of sugar.

For comparison, a standard 6 oz juice box contains only 40 calories.

For other beverage options at restaurants, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Hi-C at Waffle House and Other Restaurants

Hi-C is available at various fast food and convenience store chains. While Waffle House offers a wide selection of beverages, Hi-C specifically may not be available at all locations.

Waffle House Beverage Options

Waffle House provides an extensive selection of caffeine-free beverages for customers who prefer drinks without stimulants. These include:

Beverage	Size	Caffeine Status	More Information
Soft Drinks	Large	Varies by brand	Large Coca-Cola, Large Sprite
Orange Juice	Large	Caffeine-free	Minute Maid OJ
Milk	Large	Caffeine-free	Large Milk
Chocolate Milk	Large	Caffeine-free	Large Chocolate Milk
Simply Orange	Bottle	Caffeine-free	Simply Orange
Simply Lemonade	Bottle	Caffeine-free	Simply Lemonade

Hi-C Availability

Hi-C availability varies by restaurant location and region. For specific beverage options at Waffle House, customers can:

• Ask their server about available fruit drink options
• Check the Waffle House beverages menu for current offerings
• Visit the Waffle House locations page to find a restaurant near you

Other Restaurants Serving Hi-C

Restaurant	Hi-C Availability
McDonald’s	Orange Lavaburst (fountain)
Love’s Travel Stops	Various flavors (large sizes)
Select fast food chains	Varies by location

Why Do Some People Think Hi-C have Caffeine?

The misconception that Hi-C contains caffeine is common. Several factors contribute to this belief.

Common Reasons for the Misconception

Reason	Explanation
Energy boost	The sugar rush can mimic caffeine’s effects
Bright packaging	Bold colors resemble energy drink branding
Fast food association	Served alongside caffeinated sodas at restaurants
Lack of labeling	Caffeine-free status isn’t prominently displayed
Assumption about “energy”	Any energizing feeling must come from caffeine

The Psychology

When people feel more alert after drinking something, they naturally assume caffeine is responsible. Hi-C’s high sugar content (10-11g per 6 oz serving) can cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, leading to temporary increased energy and alertness. This “sugar rush” feels similar to caffeine’s stimulating effects.

For those who prefer actual caffeine, consider Waffle House coffee or other caffeinated options.

The Sugar Rush vs. Caffeine Effect

Understanding the difference between a sugar rush and caffeine stimulation helps explain why Hi-C feels energizing without containing caffeine.

Sugar Rush Effects

Effect	Duration	Source
Quick energy spike	30-60 minutes	Rapid glucose absorption
Increased alertness	Short-term	Blood sugar elevation
Potential crash	After spike	Insulin response
No central nervous system stimulation	–	Sugar doesn’t stimulate CNS

Caffeine Effects

Effect	Duration	Source
Sustained energy	3-5 hours	Adenosine receptor blockade
Increased alertness	Long-term	CNS stimulation
No crash (gradual decline)	–	Metabolized slowly
Potential jitters	Variable	Overconsumption

Why This Matters for Hi-C Drinkers

The energy you feel after drinking Hi-C comes entirely from sugar, not caffeine. This means:

• The effect is shorter-lived
• A “sugar crash” may follow
• No risk of caffeine-related side effects (jitters, anxiety, sleep disruption)
• Safe for children who shouldn’t consume caffeine

For caffeine-free options at restaurants, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Hi-C Nutrition Facts: Calories, Sugar, and Vitamin C

Understanding Hi-C’s nutritional profile helps you make informed choices.

Standard 6 oz Juice Box Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount	Notes
Calories	40	From sugar only
Total Fat	0g	Fat-free
Sodium	10-15mg	Varies by flavor
Total Carbohydrates	10-11g	All from sugar
Total Sugars	10-11g	Added sugars
Added Sugars	8-10g	Varies by flavor
Protein	0g	No protein
Potassium	10-50mg	Varies by flavor
Vitamin C	100% DV	Added vitamin C

What This Means

• Calories: A 6 oz juice box contains 40 calories, all from sugar.
• Sugar content: 10-11g per serving equals about 2.5 teaspoons of sugar.
• Added sugars: The 20% daily value for added sugars in one small box is significant.
• Vitamin C: Each serving provides 100% of daily vitamin C needs.

For comparison with other beverages, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Vitamin C Content: The Original Purpose

Hi-C was originally created to provide children with a tasty source of vitamin C. This remains a key feature of the brand today.

Vitamin C in Hi-C

Flavor	Vitamin C per Serving	% Daily Value
Orange Lavaburst	100% DV	100%
Flashin’ Fruit Punch	100% DV	100%
Grabbin’ Grape	100% DV	100%
Boppin’ Strawberry	100% DV	100%
Torrential Tropical Punch	100% DV	100%
Strawberry Kiwi Kraze	100% DV	100%
Drink Mixes	100% DV	100%

Why Vitamin C Matters

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an essential nutrient that:

• Supports immune function
• Helps produce collagen
• Aids in iron absorption
• Acts as an antioxidant

The Trade-Off

While Hi-C provides 100% of daily vitamin C needs, it also contains added sugars. A single 6 oz serving provides 20% of the daily recommended limit for added sugars. This means moderation is important.

For other vitamin C-rich options, consider Minute Maid Orange Juice at Waffle House.

Hi-C Ingredients Explained

Hi-C contains several ingredients that serve specific purposes. Understanding them helps you know what you’re consuming.

Core Ingredients

Ingredient	Purpose	Found In
Pure filtered water	Base liquid	All flavors
High fructose corn syrup	Sweetener	All regular flavors
Fruit juices from concentrate	Flavor and color	All flavors
Natural and artificial flavors	Taste enhancement	Most flavors
Citric acid	Tartness and preservation	All flavors
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)	Nutritional additive	All flavors
Sucralose	Artificial sweetener	All flavors
Acesulfame potassium	Artificial sweetener	All flavors

Juice Concentrates by Flavor

Flavor	Juice Concentrates Used
Orange Lavaburst	Orange, pear
Flashin’ Fruit Punch	Pineapple, orange
Grabbin’ Grape	Pear, grape
Boppin’ Strawberry	Pear, strawberry
Torrential Tropical Punch	Pineapple, orange
Strawberry Kiwi Kraze	Apple, pear, strawberry, kiwi

Artificial Sweeteners

All regular Hi-C flavors contain two artificial sweeteners in addition to high fructose corn syrup:

• Sucralose (Splenda) – Provides sweetness without calories
• Acesulfame potassium (Ace-K) – Enhances sweetness

These allow the drink to maintain sweetness while using less sugar overall.

Is Hi-C Healthy for Kids?

This question requires a balanced answer that considers both benefits and concerns.

Benefits

Benefit	Details
No caffeine	Safe for children’s developing systems
Vitamin C	100% daily value per serving
Hydration	Provides fluid intake
Familiar taste	Children enjoy the flavor

Concerns

Concern	Details
Added sugars	10g per serving (20% daily limit)
No fiber	Unlike whole fruit
Artificial sweeteners	Sucralose and acesulfame potassium
Acidic	Citric acid may affect tooth enamel
Calorie density	Calories with no nutritional benefits beyond vitamin C

Balanced Approach

Hi-C can be part of a child’s diet when consumed in moderation. The 100% vitamin C content provides a nutritional benefit, but the added sugars mean it shouldn’t be a daily staple. Parents might consider:

• Occasional treats (birthday parties, school lunches)
• Smaller portions (6 oz juice boxes vs. larger sizes)
• Pairing with meals to reduce sugar spike
• Alternating with water or milk

For healthier beverage options for children, consider milk or orange juice at restaurants.

Hi-C vs. Other Fruit Drinks: Comparison

Comparing Hi-C to similar beverages helps put its nutritional profile in context.

Comparison Table (per 6 oz serving)

Beverage	Calories	Sugar	Vitamin C	Caffeine
Hi-C (any flavor)	40	10-11g	100% DV	0 mg
Kool-Aid (sweetened)	60	16g	0%	0 mg
Capri Sun	50	12g	0-100% (varies)	0 mg
Sunny D	60	13g	100%	0 mg
Hawaiian Punch	70	18g	0%	0 mg
100% Orange Juice	80	18g	100%	0 mg
Soda (Cola)	75	20g	0%	22-34 mg

Key Differences

Factor	Hi-C	100% Juice	Soda
Sugar source	Added + natural	Natural only	Added
Fiber	None	Some (if pulp included)	None
Vitamins	Added vitamin C	Natural vitamins	None
Caffeine	None	None	Present in many

What This Means

Hi-C falls between 100% juice and soda in terms of nutritional value. It has less sugar than soda and provides vitamin C, but lacks the fiber and natural nutrients found in whole fruit. The added sugars make it less healthy than 100% juice, but the absence of caffeine makes it safer for children than soda.

For caffeine-free beverage options at restaurants, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Caffeine-Free Alternatives to Hi-C

If you enjoy Hi-C but want to explore other options, several caffeine-free fruit drinks exist.

Popular Alternatives

Brand	Description	Caffeine Status
Kool-Aid	Powdered drink mix in many flavors	Caffeine-free
Capri Sun	Pouch drinks with various fruit flavors	Caffeine-free
Sunny D	Citrus-flavored drink with vitamin C	Caffeine-free
Hawaiian Punch	Bold fruit flavors	Caffeine-free
Tampico	Budget-friendly fruit drinks	Caffeine-free

Restaurant Alternatives

At Waffle House, caffeine-free options include:

Beverage	More Information
Orange Juice	Minute Maid OJ
Milk	Large Milk
Chocolate Milk	Large Chocolate Milk
Simply Orange	Simply Orange
Simply Lemonade	Simply Lemonade
Sprite	Large Sprite
Barq’s Root Beer	Large Barq’s (caffeine-free)

Healthier Alternatives

For those seeking lower sugar options:

Option	Benefits
100% fruit juice	No added sugars, natural vitamins
Infused water	Zero calories, no sugar
Sparkling water with fruit	Carbonation without sweeteners
Homemade smoothies	Control over ingredients

Does Hi-C Have Artificial Sweeteners?

Yes, all regular Hi-C flavors contain artificial sweeteners in addition to high fructose corn syrup.

Artificial Sweeteners in Hi-C

Sweetener	Type	Purpose
Sucralose	Artificial sweetener	Adds sweetness without calories
Acesulfame potassium	Artificial sweetener	Enhances and prolongs sweetness

Why Artificial Sweeteners Are Used

The combination of high fructose corn syrup and artificial sweeteners allows Hi-C to:

• Maintain sweetness with less total sugar
• Reduce calorie content compared to using sugar alone
• Provide consistent flavor across batches
• Extend shelf life

Sugar-Free Drink Mixes

Hi-C drink mix sticks contain no sugar and are sweetened entirely with artificial sweeteners:

• Sucralose – Primary sweetener
• Acesulfame potassium – Secondary sweetener

For those avoiding artificial sweeteners, consider Simply Orange or Simply Lemonade at Waffle House.

Hi-C Drink Boxes: School Lunch Staple

Hi-C juice boxes have been a lunchbox staple for generations of American schoolchildren.

Why Hi-C Is Popular for School Lunches

Reason	Explanation
Convenience	Individual serving sizes, no refrigeration needed
Durability	Sturdy boxes that don’t leak easily
Familiarity	Recognizable brand children enjoy
Vitamin C	Provides 100% daily value
No caffeine	Safe for school-age children

School Lunch Considerations

Parents sending Hi-C in school lunches should consider:

• Sugar content – 10-11g per box adds up over time
• Portion control – 6 oz is an appropriate serving size
• Balance – Pair with water or milk throughout the day
• Dental health – Encourage water after drinking to rinse teeth

For other lunchbox beverage options, consider milk or orange juice in appropriate containers.

Hi-C History: From Orange Drink to Cultural Icon

Origins (1940s)

Hi-C was introduced in 1946 by the Duncan Foods Company. It was created as an orange-flavored drink specifically designed to provide children with vitamin C. The name “Hi-C” directly referenced its high vitamin C content.

Acquisition by Coca-Cola (1950s-1960s)

The Coca-Cola Company acquired Hi-C as part of its expansion into non-carbonated beverages. This acquisition helped distribute Hi-C nationally and eventually internationally.

Juice Box Revolution (1970s-1980s)

Hi-C was among the first brands to embrace the juice box format when it gained popularity in the 1980s. The portable, shelf-stable packages made Hi-C a lunchbox staple.

McDonald’s Partnership (1990s-Present)

Hi-C became a featured beverage at McDonald’s restaurants, particularly as a non-carbonated option for Happy Meals. Orange Lavaburst remains a menu staple at McDonald’s locations nationwide.

Modern Era (2000s-Present)

Hi-C continues to evolve with new flavors and formats, including sugar-free drink mixes and limited-time offerings. Despite competition from other fruit drinks, it maintains a loyal following.

For current beverage offerings at restaurants, visit the Waffle House beverages menu.

Hi-C at Waffle House: What You Need to Know

While Hi-C may not be available at all Waffle House locations, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of caffeine-free beverages.

Waffle House Beverage Selection

Category	Options	More Information
Soft Drinks	Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Sprite, Barq’s Root Beer, Pibb Xtra, Hi-C Fruit Punch	Soft Drinks Menu
Juices	Orange Juice, Simply Orange, Simply Lemonade	Minute Maid OJ, Simply Orange, Simply Lemonade
Milk	White Milk, Chocolate Milk	Large Milk, Large Chocolate Milk
Coffee	Regular Coffee	Large Coffee

Hi-C Fruit Punch at Waffle House

Waffle House offers Large Hi-C Fruit Punch at participating locations. This provides the same caffeine-free fruit punch flavor in a larger size suitable for dining in.

Finding Hi-C at Your Local Waffle House

To determine if your local Waffle House serves Hi-C:

1. Check the Waffle House locations page
2. Visit the restaurant and ask your server
3. Review the beverages menu for current offerings

Key Takeaways

Topic	Summary
Caffeine Content	All Hi-C products contain 0 mg of caffeine
Energy Source	The energizing feeling comes from sugar, not caffeine
Nutrition	40 calories, 10-11g sugar, 100% vitamin C per 6 oz serving
Ingredients	Water, high fructose corn syrup, fruit juices, artificial sweeteners
Restaurant Availability	McDonald’s (Orange Lavaburst), select Waffle House locations (Fruit Punch)
Best For	Children, caffeine-sensitive individuals, anyone avoiding stimulants

What This Means for You

If you’re avoiding caffeine for any reason—whether for yourself, your children, or your family—Hi-C is a safe choice. The absence of caffeine makes it suitable for:

• School lunches
• Children’s parties
• Late-night meals (won’t interfere with sleep)
• Anyone with caffeine sensitivity
• Pregnant or nursing women

However, the sugar content means moderation is still important. A single 6 oz juice box contains 10-11g of added sugar—about 20% of the daily recommended limit. For comparison, a large McDonald’s Hi-C contains 58-94g of sugar, equivalent to 15-23 teaspoons.

Making Informed Choices

Understanding what’s in your drinks helps you make better decisions. Hi-C offers the benefit of vitamin C without caffeine, but the added sugars mean it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

For caffeine-free options at restaurants, Waffle House provides an extensive selection including soft drinks, juices, and milk. Whether you choose Hi-C or another beverage, you can enjoy your meal knowing exactly what you’re consuming.

Complete Hi-C Resource Index

Category	Link
Waffle House Beverages Menu	Beverages Menu
Hi-C Fruit Punch at Waffle House	Large Hi-C Fruit Punch
Coca-Cola at Waffle House	Large Coca-Cola
Diet Coke at Waffle House	Large Diet Coke
Sprite at Waffle House	Large Sprite
Barq’s Root Beer at Waffle House	Large Barq’s
Pibb Xtra at Waffle House	Large Pibb Xtra
Orange Juice at Waffle House	Minute Maid OJ
Simply Orange at Waffle House	Simply Orange
Simply Lemonade at Waffle House	Simply Lemonade
Milk at Waffle House	Large Milk
Chocolate Milk at Waffle House	Large Chocolate Milk
Coffee at Waffle House	Large Coffee

Waffle House General Resources

Resource	Link
Complete Menu Index	Waffle House Index
Locations	Waffle House Locations
Hours	Waffle House Hours
Nutrition Information	Waffle House Nutrition
Calorie Calculator	Calorie Calculator
Printable Menu	Printable Menu
Contact	Contact Us

Texas-Specific Resources

Resource	Link
Texas Locations	Waffle Houses in Texas
Liberty Hill Location	Waffle House Coming to Liberty Hill

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Hi-C have caffeine?

No. All Hi-C products are completely caffeine-free. This includes all flavors, juice boxes, fountain drinks, and drink mixes.

Does McDonald’s Hi-C have caffeine?

No. McDonald’s serves the same caffeine-free Hi-C formula. Their Hi-C Orange Lavaburst contains zero caffeine.

Does Waffle House serve Hi-C?

Some Waffle House locations serve Large Hi-C Fruit Punch. Availability varies by location. Visit the beverages menu for more information.

Does Hi-C Orange have caffeine?

No. Hi-C Orange Lavaburst contains zero caffeine.

Does Hi-C Fruit Punch have caffeine?

No. Flashin’ Fruit Punch and all other fruit punch flavors are caffeine-free.

Does Hi-C Lemonade have caffeine?

No. Poppin’ Lemonade contains no caffeine.

What are the ingredients in Hi-C?

Hi-C contains water, high fructose corn syrup, fruit juices from concentrate, and less than 0.5% of natural flavors, citric acid, vitamin C, and artificial sweeteners (sucralose and acesulfame potassium).

How much sugar is in Hi-C?

A standard 6 oz juice box contains 10-11g of sugar, all from added sugars.

How many calories are in Hi-C?

A standard 6 oz juice box contains 40 calories.

Does Hi-C have vitamin C?

Yes. All Hi-C products provide 100% of the daily value for vitamin C per serving.

Is Hi-C healthy for kids?

Hi-C can be part of a child’s diet in moderation. It provides vitamin C and contains no caffeine, but the added sugar content means it shouldn’t be a daily staple.

Does Hi-C have artificial sweeteners?

Yes. All regular Hi-C flavors contain sucralose and acesulfame potassium in addition to high fructose corn syrup.

What flavors does Hi-C come in?

Current flavors include Orange Lavaburst, Flashin’ Fruit Punch, Poppin’ Lemonade, Grabbin’ Grape, Boppin’ Strawberry, Torrential Tropical Punch, Strawberry Kiwi Kraze, and Mashin’ Mango Melon.

When was Hi-C invented?

Hi-C was introduced in 1946.

Who makes Hi-C?

Hi-C is manufactured by the Coca-Cola Company.

What is the difference between Hi-C and juice?

Hi-C contains added sugars and artificial sweeteners, while 100% juice contains only natural sugars from fruit. Both provide vitamin C, but 100% juice offers additional nutrients and fiber.

Can adults drink Hi-C?

Yes. Hi-C is enjoyed by people of all ages, though adults may prefer lower-sugar options.

Where can I buy Hi-C?

Hi-C juice boxes are available at most grocery stores. Fountain Hi-C is available at McDonald’s and some other restaurants. Large Hi-C Fruit Punch is available at select Waffle House locations.

Conclusion

The question “Does Hi-C have caffeine?” has a clear answer: No, Hi-C does not contain caffeine in any of its forms. For the most current beverage information, visit WaffleMenus.us