The non-alcoholic beer is a popular alternative for those looking to enjoy the taste of beer without the effects of alcohol. More and more brands are offering this type of non-alcoholic drinks, ranging from large industrial breweries to artisanal brewers. However, to be completely clear and honest on the subject, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of non-alcoholic beer before consuming it. In this article, we'll look at everything you need to know about this non-alcoholic beverage, including its benefits, risks, and essential information for consuming it safely.
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What is non-alcoholic beer?
The non-alcoholic beer, also called non-alcoholic beer or beer 0.0%, is a brewed beverage that contains very little or no alcohol. In France, legislation states that a beer can be considered "alcohol-free" if it has an alcohol content of less than 1.2%. However, it is important to note that this does not mean that this non-alcoholic drink is completely free of alcohol. In fact, alcohol-free beer is brewed in the same way as other drinks and the dealcoholization takes place in a second step, which means that a small percentage of alcohol may remain.
“0.5% is not Alcohol Free!”
No, it is true in the scientific sense of the term. We hear this remark from time to time and we can very well understand why it is important for certain “0.0 purists”. We are talking about low-alcohol drinks here. At Sanzalc, What we say we need to remember for our customers is that it doesn't matter how many drinks are 0.5% alcohol by volume or less. In fact, Cola, fruit juices and even baked bread can have a higher blood alcohol level than our non-alcoholic beers – orange juice itself can have a blood alcohol level of 0.73% and grape juice 0.86%!
In fact, alcohol can be found wherever fermentation takes place. We even find up to 4.5% alcohol in certain syrups such as Tussipax or up to 3.8% for Passedyl (syrup for children and infants). To give a 3rd and final example known to all: Vicks pectoral syrup contains 0.15% alcohol.
The benefits of alcohol-free beer
Non-alcoholic beer offers several advantages over traditional beer, including:
Fewer calories in non-alcoholic beer
Non-alcoholic beer generally contains fewer calories than traditional beer. Indeed, alcohol is a caloric ingredient that can contribute to weight gain. So, choosing a non-alcoholic drink can help you maintain your weight or lose a few pounds. Some athletes who wish to maintain their weight and health at a high level without giving up the pleasure of a good cold beer are increasingly turning to adaptogenic beverages (Fungtn) or so-called sports beers like Mikkeller Energibajer 0% alcohol-free beer, the Sportzot, the Kwaremont 0.3 or the range Athletic Brewing.
No alcohol-related side effects
Drinking alcohol can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea and hangovers. By opting for a non-alcoholic drink, you can avoid these inconveniences and fully enjoy your evening.
Safer driving
Alcohol affects your reflexes and your ability to make decisions, increasing the risk of accidents on the road. By drinking this non-alcoholic beverage, you can relax safely without endangering your life or that of others.
The icing on the cake, in addition to causing physical harm to yourself or others, you will escape increasingly heavy fines, particularly since the creation by the French government on July 17, 2023 of the offense of "road homicide" when the driver is drunk or drugged.
Compatible with pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnant women are often advised to avoid alcohol in order to prevent risks to the health of the fetus. 0.0% alcohol-free beer allows them to enjoy the taste of this drink without harming their baby. Likewise, 0.0% alcohol-free beer is also suitable for consumption by mothers during breastfeeding.
Halal alcohol-free beer is compatible with the Islamic religion
Halal alcohol-free beer is compatible with the Islamic religion, which makes it accessible to a greater number of consumers wishing to enjoy a good, fresh and thirst-quenching alcohol-free beer!
At Sanzalc, inclusion is important and it’s a bit like our credo: “there’s something for everyone and no one should be left behind!”
The risks of non-alcoholic beer
Although this refreshment has many benefits, it is important to understand the potential risks associated with its consumption. Here are some of the most common risks:
High sugar content
Some brands of non-alcoholic beer contain a high amount of sugar to compensate for the lack of flavor caused by dealcoholization. It's important to check the nutrition label to avoid non-alcoholic beers that are high in sugar.
Risk of excessive consumption
Since non-alcoholic beer does not contain alcohol, it is easy to consume it in large quantities without realizing the impact on your body. It is important to consume this non-alcoholic drink in moderation.
Essential information for consuming this alcohol-free refreshment
If you decide to consume this non-alcoholic beverage, here is some essential information to take into account:
Check the nutrition label
As mentioned earlier, some brands of non-alcoholic beer can contain a high amount of sugar. It's important to check the nutrition label to avoid soft drinks that are high in sugar.
Consume in moderation
As with any alcoholic beverage, it is important to consume this refreshment in moderation. The risks are of course lower but we must all be responsible with our consumption and addictions, whatever the substance!
Choose artisan brands
Non-alcoholic craft beer brands tend to have lower sugar content and a more authentic taste than large industrial breweries. The craft alcohol-free beers that you will more commonly find under the name craft alcohol-free beers are today increasingly sought after for their unique character brought by innovative breweries.
At Sanzalc, we like to highlight Lille actors like Gobrecht Brewery with the Lil without alcohol or even the Young Pug IPA 0.0% alcohol-free from the Brique House Brewery.
Opt for organic and gluten-free beers
If you are sensitive to allergens or looking for a healthier option, opt for organic and gluten-free beers.
At Sanzalc, we have ranges dedicated to this type of research.
Avoid the Cheapest Non-Alcoholic Beer
As with any product, you pay for quality. We recommend avoiding the cheapest soft drinks, which tend to be of lower quality. But as we said above, Sanzalc seeks to leave no one on the side of the road, so you will find very affordable non-alcoholic drinks with us and among the cheapest on the market!
What to remember?
We therefore affirm that non-alcoholic beer offers an interesting alternative to traditional beer for those looking to reduce their alcohol consumption while still enjoying the taste of beer. However, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of this beverage before consuming it. By following the essential information for consuming non-alcoholic beers, you can safely enjoy this popular and thirst-quenching alternative.
Cheers 🥂
