Is There Alcohol In Non-Alcoholic Beer?

So - you’re wondering if there’s alcohol in non-alcoholic beer?

The answer is often yes. Unless your favourite brew is labelled alcohol-free (meaning 0.0% ABV) then it might have a tiny bit of alcohol in it!

In the UK, a drink needs to only be below 0.5% ABV to be labelled non-alcoholic. This means that sometimes the non-alcoholic beer you’re drinking will contain alcohol in lower quantities.

Let’s unpack that a little further…

Understanding Non-Alcoholic Beer: Definition and Types

Non-alcoholic beer, often abbreviated as NA beer, is a beverage that aims to replicate the flavour and experience of traditional beer without the intoxicating effects of alcohol. By definition, non-alcoholic beer contains minimal alcohol, typically less than 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV).

This minuscule amount is significantly lower than that found in regular beers, which commonly range from 4% to 6% ABV. Despite the name, non-alcoholic beer is not entirely devoid of alcohol, but the concentration is generally so low that it is considered non-intoxicating.

Types Of Non-Alcoholic Beers Available 

There’s a huge range of non-alcoholic beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and IPAs, each with their own unique brewing process and flavour profile.

Lagers are light and crisp, ales tend to be more robust and fruity, stouts are dark and rich, and IPAs are known for their hoppy bitterness.

The availability of such diverse styles ensures that non-alcoholic beer enthusiasts can find a beverage that suits their palate, mirroring the variety found in the alcoholic beer market.

Why the confusing categorisation of non-alcoholic beers?

The categorisation of non-alcoholic beers is usually based on their production methods. The reason some still contain alcohol is because they’re made with alcohol and then have the alcohol removed. Meanwhile, some brands are brewed to be non-alcoholic from the start.

While most brands clearly indicate their alcohol content, others may use terms like "non-alcoholic" or "low-alcohol" without specifying the exact percentage. Be sure to read the labels carefully.

The categorisation of non-alcoholic drinks can be confusing so it’s important to be informed when making choices.

The Brewing Process: How Non-Alcoholic Beer is Made

The brewing process for non-alcoholic beer starts much like that of traditional beer. It involves the standard steps of mashing, lautering, boiling, fermenting, and conditioning. The primary difference lies in how the alcohol content is controlled or removed.

Fermentation 

One common method is controlled fermentation, where the brewer carefully monitors the fermentation process to ensure that only a minimal amount of alcohol is produced. This involves using specific yeast strains that naturally produce less alcohol or halting fermentation before significant alcohol can be created. 

Reverse osmosis

Another technique is reverse osmosis, where the alcohol is filtered out of the beer post-fermentation. This method uses a filtration system to separate the alcohol from the beer without significantly altering its flavor.

Vacuum distillation

Another approach is vacuum distillation, where the beer is subjected to a vacuum that lowers the boiling point of alcohol, allowing it to be removed at lower temperatures. This method helps preserve the beer's original flavors and aromas.

Alcohol Content in Non-Alcoholic Beer: What You Need to Know

Despite its name, non-alcoholic beer does contain a small amount of alcohol.

By legal definition in many countries including the UK, non-alcoholic beer can contain up to 0.5% ABV. This amount is generally considered too low to produce any noticeable effects in most people.

However, it's essential to understand that this small percentage can vary slightly depending on the brewing process and the specific brand.

For most individuals, the trace amounts of alcohol in non-alcoholic beer are negligible and unlikely to cause intoxication. Nevertheless, for certain groups, like pregnant women, those with alcohol dependency issues, or those taking specific medications, even this small amount can cause issues.

Always Consult Your Doctor If You Have Concerns

If in doubt about whether to drink non-alcoholic beer, chat with your doctor for more advice.

Legal Definitions and Regulations Surrounding Non-Alcoholic Beer

The legal definitions and regulations surrounding non-alcoholic beer vary by country, but they are generally designed to ensure that these beverages contain minimal alcohol. 

In the United States, for instance, non-alcoholic beer must contain less than 0.5% ABV to be labeled as such. In the UK, the threshold is also 0.5% ABV. These regulations help standardise what can be marketed as non-alcoholic beer and provide consumers with a clear understanding of what they are purchasing.

Non-Alcoholic Beer Brands

Some of the most popular brands of non-alcohol beer are:

- Lucky Saint: Loved for their dry, refreshing flavour and a citrus hop finish.

- Heineken 0.0: Known for its crisp and refreshing taste that closely mirrors its alcoholic counterpart. Always 0.0% which is great for those who want zero alcohol.

- Athletic Brewing Co.: High-quality, craft-style non-alcoholic beers. Their offerings include a range of styles from IPAs to stouts, catering to diverse tastes.

- Clausthaler: Known for its German brewing heritage, Clausthaler offers a range of non-alcoholic beers that emphasize traditional brewing techniques and robust flavors. 

- BrewDog's Nanny State: Acclaimed for its bold and hoppy profile, it’s a favourite among craft beer enthusiasts

Risks of non-alcoholic beer labelling

While non-alcoholic beer can be a great alternative for those who love the drink, it can also pose risks for certain groups.

For those with alcohol dependency issues, even the small amount of alcohol present in these beverages can be problematic and trigger them. For these people, opting for 0.0% options is a much better choice.

Similarly, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, having alcohol in your system is a no-go. Opting for 0.0% and checking the labels twice is a good idea.

Myths and Misconceptions About Non-Alcoholic Beer

Despite its growing popularity, non-alcoholic beer is still surrounded by myths and misconceptions. 

One common myth is that non-alcoholic beer is entirely alcohol-free, which, as discussed earlier, is not accurate. While the alcohol content is minimal, it is not zero, and this distinction is important for certain consumers. 

Another misconception is that non-alcoholic beer lacks flavour or quality compared to traditional beer. This is also not true, advancements in brewing technology and techniques have led to the production of high-quality non-alcoholic beers that can rival their alcoholic counterparts in taste and complexity.

There is also a misconception that non-alcoholic beer isn’t as enjoyable. This is a complete myth. The non-alcoholic drinks industry has come a long way in a short time, and we’re now seeing incredible taste experiences from all kinds of alcohol-free and non-alcoholic drinks.

So, Is There Alcohol In Non-Alcoholic Beer?

Yes, there can be alcohol in non-alcoholic beer.

While non-alcoholic beer has emerged as a popular and viable alternative for those seeking the taste and experience of beer without the intoxicating effects, there can still be small amounts of alcohol in these drinks.

Understanding the nuances of non-alcoholic beer, from its definition and brewing process to its alcohol content and legal regulations, is essential for making informed choices. Aim for a 0.0% drink if you’re pregnant, or wanting to stay sober for medical reasons.

For most of us, 0.5% ABV won’t do much, but it’s still nicer to know that you’re sipping on 0.0% when you’re putting in all that effort to drink less.

Want 0.0% instead of non-alcoholic? Shop our alcohol-free range now!