REVIEW OF TANGO

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 170 MILLIGRAMS PER 15.5 OUNCE CAN.

RATING: 8.1 OUT OF 10.



     During my Big Lots raid, I discovered two very similar energy drinks that have always amused me. The first is Tango Energy Juice, and the other is Samba Energy Juice. There is a third flavor called Rumba, but I have already had the pleasure of reviewing that. For this review, I'm going to check out the Tango version, so let's get cracking.

     At first glance, I can immediately see that this drink is made with 100% juice. Judging by the color, I assumed that this drink would be grape flavored, but my prediction proved to be inaccurate. Tango is a blend of 6 juices from concentrate: apple, orange, tangerine, acai, elberberry, and guava. As for the flavor, this drink goes down smoothly and quickly due to the lack of carbonation. As a consequence of having 6 different fruits, it was difficult to distinguish what fruits were more pronounced. However, this drink pleases the palate and I was left very satisfied.

     Powering this juice is a very familiar energy blend. How familiar? Well, Tango Energy Juice is made by Hansen Beverage Company. That's right, the same people who make Monster are making this delicious concoction. Here is that Monster blend once again: 191 percent daily value of vitamin b2, 191 percent daily value of vitamin b3, 191 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 191 percent daily value of vitamin b12, 1,910 milligrams of taurine, 382 milligrams of panax ginseng, and 4,771 milligrams worth of glucose, caffeine, guarana seed extract, l-carnitine, glucuronolactone, inositol, and maltodextrin. As you probably know by now, Hansen does know how to make a pretty nice blend.

     Inside each can of Tango, you will find 160 milligrams of good ol' caffeine. Couple that with the multitude of other ingredients, and this provided a pretty decent kick in the pants. Unfortunately, there is a drawback. This drink has 60 grams of sugar, so consequently I crashed pretty substantially. I hardly ever crash after an energy drink, but I actually felt lethargic after the effect wore off.

     With a delicious amalgamation of fruits and the same blend as the original Monster Energy, you really can't go wrong with this drink. I also really enjoy the fact that it is 100 percent juice, and not something that is 50 percent or lower. I can't find a single reason why you wouldn't want to pick this up, and at 70 cents from Big Lots, that's quite the deal.

REVIEW OF BIG JAK ORANGE

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 164 MILLIGRAMS PER 16 OUNCE CAN.

RATING: 7.2 OUT OF 10. 



Over the past day or so, I have been trying to renovate this site and update its layout. After hours of meticulous work, it has finally been completed. We sincerely hope you enjoy the new and improved layout of the site. Anyhow, I found this next drink at a place where no energy drink wants to be: Big Lots. If your drink shows up here for around 60 cents, you are either trying to get rid of old inventory or you simply didn't make it in the energy drink industry. Nevertheless, I am eager to review the orange flavor of Big Jak, which I purchased for 70 cents.

     At first glance, I thought I had purchased the original flavor of Big Jak, but with further inspection I discovered that this is actually the orange flavor. Almost instantaneously, I figured that this would taste like orange soda. Of course, my assumption proved to be accurate. I mean, what else is an orange flavored soda supposed to taste like? The drink does go down smoothly and leaves no noticeable aftertaste. The only negative aspect is that you may get cottonmouth after consuming this beverage, due to the high amounts of sugar and citric acid.

     Now it's time to find out what ingredients are powering Big Jak. It has 200 percent daily value of niacin, 500 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 160 percent daily value of vitamin b12, 100 percent daily value of pantothenic acid, 1,894 milligrams of taurine, 300 milligrams of glucuronolactone, 200 milligrams of panax ginseng root extract, 96 milligrams of inositol, and 50 milligrams of l-carnitine. It also contains 164 milligrams of caffeine, on par with the industry average. As expected, this is just an average energy drink blend. No harm done here.

     After consuming this orange flavored refreshment, I was hit with a decent boost in alertness, but certainly nothing spectacular. I would compare the effectiveness to the vast majority of 16 ounce energy drinks. If you are looking for a basic increase in energy and alertness, this drink should do the trick.

     In an aforementioned statement, I said that no energy drink wants to be at Big Lots. Needless to say, you can still find quality energy drinks that simply couldn't make it in the overly-saturated energy drink industry. The question remains, is Big Jak one of those quality drinks? I don't see why it isn't, but I'll leave you to decide that one.

REVIEW OF FUEL IN A BOTTLE

CAFFEINE CONTENT: UNKNOWN.

RATING: 6.8 OUT OF 10.


     Straight out of Charlotte, North Carolina comes a new energy shot called Fuel in a Bottle. Powered by BYB Brands, this two ounce energy shot is designed to provide hours of energy without a crash. As of July 2012, they only have one flavor, but I assume that more will be one the way. So, without further ado, let's dive right in to Fuel in a Bottle.

     As previously mentioned, this energy shot only comes in one flavor. What is the flavor, you may ask? It's berry, which is the flavor that most energy shots come in. And why not? It's a tried and true flavor that worked for 5 Hour Energy. However, Fuel in a Bottle has created an energy shot that tastes better than 5 Hour Energy. It's not as bitter, and leaves a minimal aftertaste on the palate. Overall, it has a solid score from me in the taste department.

     The energy blend is where Fuel in a Bottle starts to worry me. It is quite similar to 5 Hour Energy. Here's the full list: 150 percent daily value of niacin, 2000 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 100 percent daily value of folic acid, 8,340 percent daily value of vitamin b12, and 1,870 milligrams of taurine, malic acid, l-phenylalanine, caffeine, and glucuronolactone. That's certainly not a bad blend, but there are some similarities to 5 Hour Energy. Both shots have 30 milligrams of niacin, 40 milligrams of vitamin b6, and 500 micrograms of vitamin b12. Fuel in a Bottle contains 5 of the 7 ingredients found in 5 Hour's blend and both are worth 1,870 milligrams. The story continues with the other ingredients. There really is no other way of saying it, Fuel in a Bottle is a 5 Hour Energy clone.

     Well, despite being a near identical duplication of 5 Hour Energy, Fuel in a Bottle does appear to have a higher caffeine content. Unfortunately, the caffeine content is hidden in the energy blend, but it states on the bottle that it contains "as much caffeine as one and a half cups of coffee." After consuming the product, I was hit with an ample boost of energy that lasted for a few hours, and tapered off without a crash. Yes, there are more effective energy shots out there, and I suggest you skip this if all you want is energy.

     Fuel in a Bottle is simply another 5 Hour Energy clone, and that doesn't bother me too much, but I prefer originality. Sure, it does have a nice flavor, and it is relatively effective, but I just wish they could have come up with something a little bit more original. If you've tried Fuel in a Bottle, let me know what you think of it in the comment section below.

REVIEW OF ZIPFIZZ ORANGE SODA

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 100 MILLIGRAMS PER TUBE.

Grape Flavor Shown

RATING: 7.1 OUT OF 10. 



     I recently noticed that I have been slacking quite a bit on reviews, and my co-writer has written 7 of the last 10 of them. I haven't reviewed anything in almost a month, so it's only appropriate to finally get one in. What's in store for today? It's Zipfizz Energy, a mixable energy powder that comes in a few neat flavors. Let's check out the orange soda flavor first.

     My biggest concern with these mixable energy powders is that they may not mix as well as they should, leaving a powdery residue at the bottom of the glass. Thankfully, Zipfizz mixes quite well, and the next step was to take a gulp. The first thing I noticed about the product was that it had a slight fizz to it, thanks to potassium carbonate. Don't expect it to be a soda, because it's a lot calmer and doesn't tickle your esophagus. As far as the actual flavor goes, I picked up a sweet and artificial orange flavor, somewhat similar to orange soda with minimal carbonation. Sucralose has managed to find its way into the product, so it does have some artificial sweetener flavor to it. All in all, it's not too bad, but there are tastier mixes out there.

     What's inside Zipfizz that makes it so zippy? Well, there's 25 percent daily value of riboflavin, 50 percent daily value of niacin, 125 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 41,667 percent daily value of vitamin b12, 25 percent daily value of pantothenic acid, and 317 milligrams worth of l-arginine, taurine, caffeine, grape seed extract, green tea extract, alpha-lipoic acid, KonaRed coffee fruit, ginger root, and american ginseng root extract. The caffeine content is listed at 100 milligrams per tube.

     After consuming the contents of zipfizz, I received a decent effect from the caffeine and other stimulants found in the product. I also enjoyed the fact that there is 833 percent of your daily value of vitamin c in here, which helps with your immune system. However, i dislike the fact that they use some unpronounceable ingredients, such as chromium dinicotinate glycinate. Of course, just because I have difficulties pronouncing a few ingredients doesn't mean those ingredients are harmful.

     In short, Zipfizz is all-around decent energy mix. It does provide some health benefits, and an adequate amount of caffeine. I wouldn't say I completely dislike anything about the product, but there is nothing about it that really makes me say "wow." If you would like, you can check it out and let me know what you think of it in the comment section below.

Editor's Note: Through further research, I discovered that chromium dinicotinate glycinate may cause several side effects, and you should consult your physician before taking any nutritional supplement containing chromium or chromium dinicotinate glycinate. Courtesy of Livestrong.

REVIEW OF FIRESTAR SHOTZ COLA

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 200 MILLIGRAMS PER PACKET.

Courtesy of Possessed By Caffeine

RATING: 8.4 OUT OF 10.

     Firestar is an energy product out of the U.K., and one that I tried to get numerous times, all unsuccessfully. After a package from Chemical Evolution arrived bearing this product, I decided it would be a perfect time to try it. I picked out the cola variety first, seeing as I like the idea of something like a pixie stick flavored as cola. 

     Upon first opening the small container, I smell the scent of BottleCaps candy, which is also a candy I really love. When I pour the powder onto my tongue, I get a nice candy cola type flavor, easily enjoyable, and fir my expectations. Of all the powder type energy candy I've ever had, I have to say Firestar made the best tasting one of all.

     I pulled the total caffeine from Energy Fiend, and it said it had 200 mgs. That is impressive. It was especially a good pick me up for today, seeing as I've been drowsy for the most part and desperately needed this. I'm happy to say Firestar out did other similar energy powders as well in terms of energy,and it uses only caffeine as a source of energy. Really impressive.

     Firestar set a nice starting place for the products I have received from Chem Evo, and has made me feel confident that all my goodies will be awesome. It is easily one of the best caffeinated candy type products I've had, though there haven't been that many of them. It's really sad I don't see these in the U.S. that much, because I'd buy these for sure. Speaking of buying them, stop by http://www.chemicalevolution.com to get your hands on them.

Reviewed By Dylan.

REVIEW OF GOLAZO JAMAICA

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 100 MILLIGRAMS PER 12 OUNCE CAN.

Courtesy of Golazo Energy

RATING: 6.5 OUT OF 10. 

     When I first looked at Jamaica, I wasn't sure what to expect with it being labeled as hibiscus punch, which after later research I learned hibiscus was a flower. I envisioned a tropical type floral taste, something unique and light, something that'd be very good. I was very eager to try the drink in hopes of finding just that.

     It has some floral taste to it, but not as unique and amazing as i had envisioned. It tastes like a light, floral accented fruit punch (hence the name hibiscus punch?), and was very refreshing when chilled. Between the original and the mandarin, this, in my honest opinion, outdoes them both in taste, as well as how unique it is. One of the brighter spots of the last few months of energy drink sampling for me.

     Like the others, it only carries 100 mgs of caffeine, along with yerba mate, and then the usual ingredients like b-vitamins and guarana. And like the other two, it isn't as much as someone like me would want, but is ok for those seeking a light buzz. And I suppose the amount of caffeine is also appropriate for the targeted person, the soccer fan, but I wouldn't know.

     Golazo managed to impress me with another great tasting energy drink. While still lacking that ever so wonderful caffeine, they still have a drink worth trying here. I surely do hope I see these in stores soon, because I really do love the taste, and it'd be a shame not to have them around here.

Reviewed By Dylan

REVIEW OF GOLAZO MANDARIN

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 100 MILLIGRAMS PER 12 OUNCE CAN.

Courtesy of Golazo Energy 

RATING: 5.9 OUT OF 10. 

     I fell in love with this soccer themed drink back in NRG Drink Euphoria days, however, something about it now doesn't appeal to me. I think it is because I was still not very knowledgeable about energy drinks when I reviewed it the first go round, but now i see it wasn't as great as I thought. This is one of their new flavors, and while I'm happy to try it, I just don't have that same love for the brand that I once had.

     The taste of the original was an area in which it excelled, so I have high hopes for the taste of the mandarin counterpart. I will say that this is pretty darn good, but not as great as the original. It tastes like the cheap generic orange sodas I find at my local grocery store, which I do enjoy, but they are lackluster in producing a great orange soda taste. It is a sweet kinda candy-ish flavor, which is nice, but below the standards I set.

     I could’ve swore it was stronger, that, or I over-hyped the buzz of this drink in my early days as a reviewer. With only 100 mgs of caffeine, it isn't as potent as I gave credit for, but still works for something intended to be a sports energy drink. While the caffeine lacks, the overall blend stands at 4.15 gs of blend, with the usual ingredients, such as guarana, b-vitamins, and yerba mate (which now thinking about it, is not so usual). Golazo may get you hyped for a game of futbol, but isn't gonna thrill the avid caffeine junkie.

     Golazo, while I still love the flavors of the brand, is not as powerful as I once imagined it was, as I have now gained understanding of energy drinks prior to my past experiences with this product. It is still a great drink for anyone avid for soccer, anyone looking for a slight pick me up, or someone looking for a great tasting energy drink to try. While not as tasty as the original, mandarin still maintains a nice flavor, and is sure to score.

Reviewed By Dylan

REVIEW OF COWBOY UP

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 250 MILLIGRAMS PER 11.2 OUNCE BOTTLE.

Courtesy of Cowboy Up Energy

RATING: 7.7 OUT OF 10.

     Cowboy Up is one of those drinks that when you see its package, you know you have to buy it. When I first saw the review, I instantaneously went to find the company contact info, just so I could get a hold of the neat bottle-can. Cowboy Up is made by a couple of ranchers from New Mexico, and is true fuel for the hard-working American. While I can not say I am a hard working American, I still enjoy this drink.

     It lists apple juice among the ingredients, and obviously, that is what it tasted like. Upon contact with the palate, I saw a nice, crisp kinda apple juice flavor, something I've never had in energy drink, and very unique to me. Upon bigger swallows it started showing a bit more of a different taste, something as my brother described as beer, even though I didn't taste that. I do ,however, like this drink and must admit to it being one of my favorites of the year.

     According to the info provided to me, the drink contains 250 mgs of caffeine, which is pretty darn good. Along with the B-vitamins, L-theanine, Acetyl, L-carnitine, Hyperzine-A, and griffonia seed extract, I was left with a nice 3-4 hour buzz,which wasn't what I expected. It was a moderate rush, and it works well for those who don't want something more hardcore.

     With a great taste, a good buzz, and a really sweet container, Cowboy Up stands out as one of my favorite drinks of the year. It was a surprising one, as I had set the standards to average, but it exceeded. I recommend this drink to anyone.


Reviewed By Dylan

REVIEW OF CINTRON TROPICAL AZUL-300TH REVIEW!

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 170 MILLIGRAMS PER 16 OUNCE CAN.

RATING: 6.6 OUT OF 10.


     As you can tell by the title, this review is going to be extremely special. That's right, After nearly 1,197 days on the Internet, Addicted 2 Energy has reached 300 reviews. It really is incredible to see how far this site has come over the past few years. I still remember when I was extremely happy to get 1,000 views, now I'm happy to see 10,000 monthly views. I would like to personally thank each and every one of you for visiting my site, and I would also like to thank Dylan for helping this site reach 300 reviews. Now, it's review time. This one is on another flavor of Cintron, and it happens to be their most popular flavor.

     The flavor is described on the can as "tropical azul", or blue tropical in English, so I was eager to see what it might taste like. I'm not entirely certain, but it appears that Tropical Azul is a mix of acai and blueberry, with other berries lurking in the background. Remember, taste is subjective, so other people may think differently. I thought that Cintron did a pretty nice job with this flavor, and it was certainly better than the original.

     If you've read my last review, you'd know that Cintron doesn't have the greatest energy blend. Here's the full list again: 200 percent daily value of niacin, 100 percent daily value of pantothenic acid, 500 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 140 percent daily value of vitamin b12, taurine, glucuronolactone, caffeine, and inositol.

     As mentioned in the preceding review, Cintron Energy Drink contains 170 milligrams of caffeine, putting it just slightly above the industry average. As you may have already guessed, this energy drink didn't really have a lot of effectiveness. Of course, this is due to my rather high tolerance, and this should work if your tolerance isn't high.

     Cintron's most popular flavor is, overall, a pretty decent energy drink. Its strong point is its interesting berry flavor, and its can design. Once again, the energy blend does need a little work, and that can be fixed by adding some guarana or ginseng. I am extremely eager to try the rest of the Cintron line-up, because something tells me this isn't their tastiest offering.

REVIEW OF CINTRON

CAFFEINE CONTENT: 170 MILLIGRAMS PER 16 OUNCE CAN.

RATING: 6.2 OUT OF 10.

     There aren't many many energy drinks that I have been wanting to get my hands on for a while, but Cintron Energy Drink is certainly one of them. This could only be due to the fact that so many other great energy drink reviews have sampled this product, so it's only fitting that I give my opinion as well. Obviously, I went for the original flavor first to see just how original they are.

     Typically, when an energy drink company describes its flavor as "original", it is generally a Red Bull clone, thus the classic energy drink flavor. Cintron isn't quite a Red Bull clone, but is does have that well-known, tart, energy drink flavor. I compared it to a mix between Monster and Red Bull, with Red Bull taking 70 percent of the flavor. All in all, it's a decent effort from Cintron.

     Now it's time to see what Cintron has under the tab. Well, it has 200 percent daily value of niacin, 100 percent daily value of pantothenic acid, 500 percent daily value of vitamin b6, 140 percent daily value of vitamin b12, taurine, caffeine, inositol, and glucuronolactone. Overall it's not too shabby, but it could use a little maintenance.

     Inside each silver and black can of Cintron Energy lies 170 milligrams of good ol' caffeine, which is certainly adequate, but not enough to put me into another gear. And that doesn't really bother me that much, considering my tolerance is so high these days. I honestly don't think the effectiveness will make or break a drink.

     So, how did this drink fair out in the end? Not too bad, actually, although there are a few faults. The first fault being the flavor, since it really isn't that original and it still tastes like all of the other energy drinks who's flavor is "original." The other fault is the energy blend, which simply needs more ingredients. Other than those two things, this drink really isn't half bad. If you love the classic energy drink flavor, you might want to pick this bad boy up.