Dunkin' Sells Out of Massive 48-Ounce Iced Coffee Buckets

Nutrition experts warn the oversized drink raises concerns about caffeine and sugar intake.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Dunkin' recently tested an oversized 48-ounce iced coffee bucket in select markets in New England, which quickly sold out. While the massive drink drew attention, nutrition experts caution that the size raises important questions about safe caffeine and sugar limits, as a single bucket could contain more than double the recommended daily caffeine intake and up to five days' worth of added sugar.

Why it matters

The limited-time launch of Dunkin's 48-ounce iced coffee bucket highlights growing consumer demand for oversized, high-caffeine beverages, even as health experts warn about the potential risks of excessive caffeine and sugar consumption. This story sparks discussion around balancing consumer preferences with nutritional guidelines.

The details

Dunkin' rolled out the 48-ounce iced coffee buckets, complete with a handle and thick straw, for a limited time in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. The massive buckets sold out almost immediately. Nutrition experts note that a single 48-ounce bucket could contain 550 to 960 mg of caffeine, more than double the FDA's recommended daily limit of 400 mg. Additionally, if the coffee is flavored with cream, sugar, and syrups, the drink could contain up to 126 grams of sugar, equivalent to five days' worth of added sugar.

  • Dunkin' launched the 48-ounce iced coffee buckets in select New England markets in February 2026.
  • The oversized drinks sold out quickly after their initial release.

The players

Dunkin'

An American coffee and doughnut company that is a subsidiary of Dunkin' Brands.

Dan Miller

A nutritionist and founder of Eternum Longevity Center.

Avery Zenker

A registered dietitian at MyHealthTeam.

Nikki Kuhlmann

A registered dietitian at WellTheory.

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What they’re saying

“The safe amount of caffeine per day is around 400 mg, according to the FDA. These 48-ounce buckets can pack anywhere between 550 and 960 mg of caffeine per bucket, meaning it could be more than double the recommended safe limit in a single container.”

— Dan Miller, Nutritionist and founder of Eternum Longevity Center

“For reference, a standard canned energy drink contains about 100-200 mg of caffeine. A 48-ounce iced coffee 'bucket' contains about as much caffeine as about five 12-ounce Red Bulls.”

— Avery Zenker, Registered dietitian at MyHealthTeam

“Dunkin's specialty flavored iced coffees contain up to 63 grams of sugar for a medium, and up to 87 grams for a large. That's more than three times the maximum amount of added sugar for the entire day.”

— Avery Zenker, Registered dietitian at MyHealthTeam

What’s next

Dunkin' has not announced plans to bring back the 48-ounce iced coffee buckets, but the company may consider offering the oversized drink again in the future if consumer demand remains high.

The takeaway

While the Dunkin' iced coffee bucket generated excitement, nutrition experts caution that the size raises serious health concerns around excessive caffeine and sugar intake. Consumers should be mindful of recommended daily limits and opt for more moderate serving sizes when enjoying coffee and other caffeinated beverages.