Labeling beers as “non-alcoholic” or “0.0” helps consumers identify products with low or no alcohol content. “Non-alcoholic” usually refers to beers with up to 0.5% alcohol by volume, while “0.0” indicates a complete absence of alcohol. This classification allows people to enjoy beer while controlling their alcohol intake.
The first patent for non-alcoholic beer was registered in 1919, right after Prohibition in the United States. During this period, the production of non-alcoholic beer became a way to circumvent the restrictions imposed on alcohol..
We’ve prepared a selection of recommended books where you’ll find valuable information about the benefits of enjoying non-alcoholic beer and how to do so without social concerns. Switching to this option is not only a smart choice, but it’s also completely acceptable in any setting. Additionally, further down, you’ll find a handy calculator to estimate your blood alcohol level, helping you better understand how these beers can fit into your lifestyle.
Classification of Non-Alcoholic Beers
- Non-Alcoholic: Up to 0.5% ABV.
- 0.0: 0.0% ABV, no traces of alcohol.
- Low Alcohol: 0.5% – 3.5% ABV, lower alcohol content than standard beer.
- Light: Reduced calories, similar alcohol content to standard beers.
1. Non-Alcoholic Beer
- Definition: In most European countries, including Spain, beers labeled as “non-alcoholic” can contain up to 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV).
- Characteristics: Although the alcohol content is very low, it is not completely null. These beers may still contain traces of alcohol resulting from the fermentation process.
Currently, the number of beers with this alcohol content tends to be fewer, as the production process for 0.0% beers is highly optimized, allowing for a wide variety of types and flavors. Examples in this category include:
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Erdinger Hefe-Weissbier Alcohol free
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Impossibrew – Non Alcoholic Craft Beer 0.5%
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Infinite Session Pale – Alcohol-Free Beer
2. Beer 0.0
- Definition: Beers labeled as “0.0” contain 0.0% alcohol by volume, meaning they have no detectable alcohol.
- Characteristics: These beers have been fully dealcoholized, ensuring they contain no alcohol, making them suitable for people who seek to completely avoid alcohol consumption.
Currently, this type of beer, with absolutely NO alcohol, is the most common. Examples of this category include the most well-known ones:
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San Miguel Alcohol Free Lager
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Staropramen 0.0% Alcohol Free Lager
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Stella Artois 0% Alcohol Free Premium Lager
Main Differences
- Alcohol Content:
- Non-Alcoholic: Up to 0.5% ABV.
- 0.0: 0.0% ABV.
- Production Process:
- Non-Alcoholic: May retain traces of alcohol after fermentation.
- 0.0: Complete dealcoholization to remove any trace of alcohol.
- Labeling and Regulation:
- Non-Alcoholic: Allows for a minimal presence of alcohol.
- 0.0: Indicates a total absence of alcohol.
Other Beer Classifications in Relation to Alcohol
3. Low Alcohol Beer
- Definition: Contains less alcohol than a standard beer, typically between 0.5% and 3.5% ABV.
- Characteristics: Provides an option with lower alcohol content while retaining more of the sensory characteristics of a conventional beer.
4.Light Beer
- Definition: Generally has an alcohol content similar to that of standard beers (around 4-5% ABV) but with fewer calories.
- Characteristics: It does not necessarily refer to the alcohol content but rather to the reduction in calories.
Virtual Blood Alcohol Level Calculator
Virtual Blood Alcohol Level Calculator according to the Widmark Formula.
The alcohol level calculator based on the Widmark formula provides an estimated and general figure, designed to give an approximate idea of your blood alcohol level. However, it is important to remember that it should not be considered an actual or legal value, as there are many additional factors, such as individual metabolism, diet, and physical condition, that a simple formula cannot account for.
I recommend using commercial breathalyzers to ensure you are always safe and avoid any recklessness. Although, as you know, the purpose of this page is precisely to enjoy beers WITHOUT alcohol.
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AlcoSense Lite 2 Breathalyser/Alcohol Tester for UK, Ireland and Scotland
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BACtrack S80 Breathalyser | Professional-Grade Accuracy
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Portable Breath Alcohol Tester for Personal & Professional Use