The UK government is considering raising the threshold for alcohol-free beverages to 0.5% ABV, a move that could bolster the development of low and no alcohol products. This adjustment would align the definition with other countries like the US, Germany, Denmark, Australia, Sweden, Portugal, and Belgium. The idea of increasing the threshold has been debated before, but a 2018 consultation did not garner enough support for the change.
The market for alcohol-free drinks, driven primarily by alcohol-free beer, has experienced significant growth in recent years. However, one-fifth of adults in England still consume alcohol above the recommended low-risk guidelines of 14 units per week. According to the government, raising the threshold could lead to more options for consumers by increasing the availability of low and no-alcohol products in retail and hospitality.
Emma McClarkin OBE, CEO of the British Beer and Pub Association, supports the proposal, stating that aligning low alcohol descriptors with international markets would create a fairer trading environment for British brewers and pub operators. Marcos Salazar, CEO of the Adult Non-Alcoholic Beverage Association, also welcomes the move, emphasizing the importance of consistent labeling across markets.
However, not everyone is in favor of raising the threshold. Derek Jones, CEO of St Peter’s Group, argues that consumers who actively seek alcohol-free beverages below 0.05% ABV could be affected if the legislation loosens. He believes that maintaining the current threshold is in the best interest of consumers.
To minimize health risks associated with alcohol consumption, the UK chief medical officers’ low-risk drinking guidelines recommend not exceeding 14 units of alcohol per week. It also advises spreading alcohol consumption over three or more days, limiting alcohol intake on a single occasion, and abstaining from alcohol if pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
As the low and no-alcohol category continues to grow, there is a focus on ensuring these products are targeted at adults as an alternative to alcohol. The government emphasizes that such products should not be marketed to or consumed by children. The consultation is also seeking input on possible age restriction warnings and updated labeling guidelines.
The consultation, led by the Office for Health Improvement and Disparities, is open until November 23. Submissions from individuals and organizations involved in the manufacturing, retail, enforcement, and public health sectors are encouraged.
