As more and more people drink alcohol-free beers, more people question “are alcohol-free beers actually alcohol-free?”
ALCOHOL-FREE BEERS IN EUROPE VS UK
In Europe, the definition of alcohol-free varies depending on the country and regulatory agency. However, the European Union (EU) has established a standard definition for non-alcoholic beverages, which states that any beverage containing less than 0.5% ABV (alcohol by volume) can be considered alcohol-free.
The UK is currently in the process of reviewing its guidance and it is likely that the government will raise the threshold from the current limit of 0.05% ABV to 0.5% ABV.
The UK legally classifies 0.5% ABV as de-alcoholised, however, many producers avoid using this term as it is thought to mislead customers by implying that alcohol is removed.
Whilst there are trace amounts of alcohol in alcohol-free beers at 0.5% ABV, many other products contain 0.5% ABV or even up to 1% ABV. Examples of this include fresh fruit juice, malt vinegar sourdough, ripe bananas, and much more.
It’s safe to say 0.0% ABV beers are completely alcohol-free. Whilst the trace amount of alcohol found in 0.5% ABV beers are almost negligible, it depends on whether you are personally comfortable.
SPECIALIST BREWERIES
As non alcoholic beer grows rapidly in popularity, more and more dedicated AF breweries have been founded. Drop Bear Beer Co. is a leading alcohol-free brewer and a perfect example of how breweries can produce such high quality alcohol-free beer when it is their priority.
Launched in 2019, Drop Bear brews award-winning alcohol-free beer below 0.5% ABV. Our range consists of four beers and you can try the beers with free 48 hour delivery.
New to Drop Bear? We recommend starting with a mixed pack so that you can find your favourite.
