Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus) has more caffeine than Mello Yello on both counts: 92mg per 16 oz can against 51mg per 12 oz can, and about 6mg per fluid ounce against 4. The serving sizes differ, so the table below shows both ways of counting.
Mello Yello vs Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus): the numbers
| Mello Yello | Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus) | |
|---|---|---|
| Caffeine per serving | 51mg per 12 oz can | 92mg per 16 oz can |
| Caffeine per fl oz | 4.2mg | 5.8mg |
| Servings to reach 400mg (FDA context) | 7.8 | 4.3 |
Sources: Mello Yello's figure is verified in our Mello Yello caffeine guide against Caffeine Informer (source); Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus)'s figure is verified in our Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus) guide against PepsiCo product facts (source).
Which one should you pick?
Pick Mello Yello when you want the lighter dose or a slower ramp, and Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus) when you actually need the bigger hit and know your tolerance. If you are stacking either with other caffeinated drinks through the day, run the math against the 400mg reference rather than guessing.
For context, the FDA cites 400mg of caffeine a day as an amount generally not associated with negative effects in healthy adults. Tolerance and health vary, so treat these numbers as information, not advice.
Related reading
- Mello Yello: the full caffeine guide
- Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus): the full caffeine guide
- The verified caffeine database
FAQ
Does Mello Yello or Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus) have more caffeine? Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus): 92mg per 16 oz can versus 51mg per 12 oz can for Mello Yello.
Which is stronger per ounce? Mtn Dew Kickstart (Orange Citrus), at about 5.8mg per fluid ounce versus 4.2mg for Mello Yello.
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