Yerba Mate 101: Answers to the Most Common Questions

It seems like yerba mate is one of the most-asked-about caffeinated drinks on the planet these days. Here are answers to the most common questions, plus where DRINK WEIRD fits in.

What is DRINK WEIRD?

All of the Energy. None of the Junk. DRINK WEIRD is a better alternative to energy drinks: organic tea and yerba mate with 160mg of organic caffeine, no artificial sweeteners or colors, and fantastic flavors that will make your taste buds jump in the mosh pit. We fuel the creatives, the chaos-makers, the wonderful weirdos, and anyone who wants a little energy boost without the baggage.

What is yerba mate?

Yerba mate is a naturally caffeinated drink made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It is brewed like tea and traditionally sipped through a filtered metal straw called a bombilla.

DRINK WEIRD puts that South American tradition into a 16oz ready-to-drink can with organic ingredients.

Is it better to drink yerba mate in the morning or at night?

Most people drink yerba mate in the morning or afternoon because of the caffeine. It is often used to start the day or as a midday pick-me-up. Drinking it close to bedtime is less common for the same reason you would not drink coffee at night.

DRINK WEIRD contains 160mg of organic caffeine per can.

What is the difference between coffee and yerba mate?

Coffee and yerba mate both contain caffeine but they come from different plants and taste different. Coffee comes from the Coffea plant. Yerba mate comes from the Ilex paraguariensis plant. Yerba mate has a lighter, more herbal flavor than coffee.

DRINK WEIRD is organic, has no artificial sweeteners or colors, and contains 160mg of organic caffeine per can.

How long does it take yerba mate to kick in?

Caffeine from yerba mate, like caffeine from coffee or tea, typically takes about 15 to 45 minutes to be absorbed.

Can I replace coffee with yerba mate?

Plenty of people swap coffee for yerba mate. It has caffeine, it has a different flavor, and it can be brewed hot or served cold.

DRINK WEIRD delivers 160mg of organic caffeine per can, which is in the range of a standard cup of brewed coffee.

Why is yerba mate popular in active communities?

Yerba mate has a long history in South America as a daily drink. In the U.S., it has been adopted by surf, skate, and other action sports communities, partly because of its caffeine content and partly because of the cultural connection through traveling athletes and brands.

What is in DRINK WEIRD?

Every DRINK WEIRD can contains:*

  • Organic tea or organic yerba mate (depending on the flavor)
  • Water
  • Organic cane sugar and/or organic fruit juice (depending on the flavor)
  • Organic caffeine (from the tea or yerba base plus organic green coffee bean extract)
  • Organic natural flavors
  • Citric acid (in most flavors)

USDA Organic certified, Non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free. No artificial sweeteners. No artificial colors.

*We publish the nutritional facts and ingredients of all of our flavors on our website. They're also on each and every can. Check the label for the most up to date information.

What sweeteners are commonly used in canned drinks?

Canned drinks use a range of sweeteners. Common ones include cane sugar, fruit juice, stevia, monk fruit, and artificial sweeteners like sucralose, aspartame, and acesulfame potassium. Some brands use a single sweetener. Others combine two or more.

DRINK WEIRD is sweetened with organic cane sugar and/or organic fruit juice depending on the flavor.

Which tea has the most caffeine?

Caffeine content varies by type of tea, how it is brewed, and how long it steeps. Matcha and strongly brewed black tea are typically among the higher-caffeine options. Yerba mate, while technically not a true tea, can contain caffeine in the same range as a strong cup of coffee depending on preparation.

DRINK WEIRD contains 160mg of organic caffeine per 16oz can.

Where does yerba mate come from?

Yerba mate comes from South America, primarily Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It is consumed daily in those countries and is deeply tied to the culture, often shared in social settings from a single gourd passed between people.

What does yerba mate taste like?

Yerba mate has an earthy, grassy, slightly bitter flavor. It is sometimes compared to green tea, though typically with more body.

DRINK WEIRD blends organic yerba mate with organic flavors and sweeteners to round it out.

What is the difference between yerba mate and green tea?

Yerba mate and green tea both contain caffeine but they come from different plants. Green tea comes from Camellia sinensis. Yerba mate comes from Ilex paraguariensis. The flavors are different and the preparation methods are different.

DRINK WEIRD makes both organic yerba mate and organic iced tea, all with 160mg of organic caffeine per can.

Is yerba mate a tea?

Yerba mate is brewed like tea, but it comes from a different plant than true tea. True teas come from Camellia sinensis. Drinks made from other plants, including yerba mate, are technically tisanes or herbal infusions.

How much caffeine is in yerba mate compared to coffee?

Caffeine content in yerba mate varies based on the leaves and brewing method. An 8oz cup of brewed coffee typically contains around 80-100mg of caffeine. A serving of yerba mate can land in a similar range, though it depends heavily on how it is prepared.

DRINK WEIRD contains 160mg of organic caffeine per 16oz can.

Can you drink yerba mate every day?

Many people drink yerba mate daily as part of their routine. As with any caffeinated beverage, pay attention to your own caffeine tolerance. If you have questions about caffeine and your health, talk to your doctor.

Where can I buy DRINK WEIRD?

DRINK WEIRD is available at drinkweird.com, Amazon, Walmart, and TikTok Shop. In stores, DRINK WEIRD is sold at Sprouts, HEB, Jacksons, Plaid Pantry, and many many many other retailers across the U.S. If your local store does not carry us, ask them to.

How do I try DRINK WEIRD?

The easiest way to find your favorite flavor is the Best Sellers Variety Pack, which includes all six flavors in one box.

Get weird, stay weird.