Word of Wisdom Clarification: Caffeinated Beverages Now Prohibited

In advance of the upcoming general conference (April 4–5, 2026), President D. Todd Christofferson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has announced new clarifications to the Word of Wisdom regarding caffeinated beverages. The updated guidance, issued by the First Presidency, takes effect immediately and applies to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints worldwide.

For many years, the Church has taught that the Word of Wisdom prohibits coffee and tea. The new clarification extends that guidance to include all caffeinated sodas, energy drinks, and highly caffeinated "dirty soda" preparations — beverages that combine carbonated soda with flavored syrups, creamers, or energy drink additives.

Updated Word of Wisdom Standards

Beginning immediately, the following standards apply:

• All caffeinated sodas, including cola beverages, are prohibited.
• Energy drinks and caffeinated "dirty soda" preparations are prohibited.
• Fountain drink sizes larger than 32 oz. are discouraged for all members.
• Herbal teas, decaffeinated coffee, and caffeine-free sodas remain permissible.

"The Word of Wisdom has always been a law of health for the physical and spiritual benefit of God's children. As the world has changed, so too have the substances that threaten our health and our spiritual sensitivity. We invite all members to embrace this clarification with faith and gratitude."

Background and Context

Church leaders have noted with concern the rapid growth of the "dirty soda" industry, particularly in areas with high concentrations of Latter-day Saint members. Establishments such as Swig, Sodalicious, and Fiiz Drinks have become cultural fixtures in Utah, Idaho, and Arizona, where members have increasingly relied on large caffeinated preparations as daily staples.

Bishops and stake presidents across the Intermountain West reported a pattern of members struggling to moderate their consumption. In one widely cited case, a stake president in Orem reported that three consecutive bishopric meetings were delayed due to what he described as "a Sodalicious situation."

Member Response

The announcement has prompted a range of responses from members. Many have expressed a desire to comply fully with the updated guidance. Others have acknowledged the personal challenge of adjusting deeply ingrained habits.

"I sustain the prophet and I will follow this guidance. But I won't pretend it's easy. My morning Diet Coke was basically a sacrament."

Members with questions about the updated standards are encouraged to speak with their local bishop. Additional resources, including a Word of Wisdom FAQ, will be made available on ChurchofJesusChrist.org in the coming weeks.

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