When it comes to citrus sodas, BodyArmor vs Powerade isn’t the only classic showdown — Mountain Dew vs Mello Yello often get compared. Both promise bold, fizzy refreshment and a caffeine-kick, but they take slightly different approaches in taste and nutrition.
Here’s a clear, cut-to-cut comparison so you can decide which one fits your cravings or soda routine.
What Is Mountain Dew?
Mountain Dew is a citrus-flavored soft drink produced by PepsiCo. It’s known for its bright color, fizzy texture, and a bold mix of citrus notes — usually lemon and lime with a sweet finish. It’s one of the most popular sodas in the U.S. and has spawned many flavor variants over the years.
People often drink Mountain Dew for:
- Quick refreshment and energy kick
- A citrus soda with a bold, sweet taste
- A caffeinated soda alternative to cola
Mountain Dew’s flavor profile is a blend of citrus and sweetness that many fans describe as sharper and tangier compared with other sodas.
What Is Mello Yello?
Mello Yello is a citrus-flavored soda introduced by The Coca-Cola Company in 1979 specifically to compete with Mountain Dew. It has a similar fizzy, citrus character but is often described as smoother or less aggressive in flavor.
People often drink Mello Yello for:
- Refreshing citrus taste
- A mellow soda experience
- Moderate caffeine boost
Mello Yello’s taste leans toward a balanced lemon-lime-orange blend rather than a sharp punch.
Key Nutrients (per 12 oz / ~355 ml serving)
| Nutrient | Mountain Dew | Mello Yello |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~170 | ~170 |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~46 g | ~47 g |
| Sugars | ~46 g | ~47 g |
| Sodium | ~65 mg | ~45 mg |
| Caffeine | ~54 mg | ~51 mg |
Both drinks contain very similar calories and sugar. Mountain Dew has slightly more sodium and caffeine, while Mello Yello has a gram more sugar — but the differences are small overall.
Which One Has More Caffeine?
Mountain Dew has slightly more caffeine than Mello Yello, but the difference is not huge:
- Mountain Dew: ~54 mg per 12 oz
- Mello Yello: ~51 mg per 12 oz
Both are moderate caffeine sodas — stronger than caffeine-free sodas but still far below coffee or energy drinks per serving.
Sugar Content
Both sodas are high in sugar, with nearly all of their calories coming from sweeteners:
- Mountain Dew: ~46 g sugar
- Mello Yello: ~47 g sugar
That’s roughly equivalent to a typical sugary soda and well above nutrition guidelines for added sugars if consumed frequently.
Taste Comparison
- Mountain Dew: Bold citrus with a tangy, sweet edge.
- Mello Yello: Smooth citrus blend that many describe as more mellow or rounded.
Mountain Dew tends to be slightly more intense and zingy, while Mello Yello is often described as a smoother, subtler citrus soda.
Artificial vs Natural Color
Both sodas use artificial coloring and flavoring as part of their formulations. Neither is known for using natural juice as a significant base, although some variants or older formulations have jokingly been noted for containing small amounts of fruit concentrate.
Convenience
Both drinks are ready-to-drink in cans, bottles, or fountain service. There’s no mixing required — just open and enjoy.
Price
Price can vary by retailer and bottle size, but both sodas are typically similarly priced as regular soft drinks. Neither is positioned as a premium or specialty beverage.
Is It Worth It?
If you want a classic citrus soda with a moderate caffeine kick, either choice will satisfy that craving. The difference comes down to subtle taste preferences rather than major nutritional distinctions.
- Choose Mountain Dew if you like a sharper, tangier citrus punch.
- Choose Mello Yello if you prefer a smoother, more mellow citrus flavor.
Health Considerations
Both sodas are high in sugar and calories — and those sugar amounts are well above what health recommendations suggest for daily added sugar intake. Regular consumption should be limited if you’re watching sugar or calorie intake.
Also track caffeine intake from all sources to avoid overconsumption, especially if you’re sensitive to stimulants.
Use Cases
Mountain Dew works best for
- A bold soda fix
- A slightly stronger caffeine kick
- Fans of sharp citrus sodas
Mello Yello works best for
- A smoother citrus soda
- Those who want a mellow taste
- Fans of classic Coca-Cola citrus offerings
Final Thoughts
Mountain Dew and Mello Yello are both classic citrus sodas with similar nutritional profiles and moderate caffeine. The choice is largely personal — do you want a tangent citrus punch or a smoother soda experience?
There’s no absolute winner — just which taste and vibe you prefer on any given day.
FAQs
Is Mountain Dew stronger than Mello Yello?
Slightly — it has a bit more caffeine and sodium.
Which has more sugar?
Mello Yello has about 1 g more sugar per serving.
Are either good for everyday hydration?
No — both are sugary sodas and not ideal for hydration purposes.
Can kids drink these?
Occasionally is okay, but the sugar and caffeine content make them less suitable for regular kids’ beverages.
Which tastes better?
That depends on personal preference — Mountain Dew is sharper, Mello Yello is mellower in citrus.