Is non-alcoholic beer really dangerous for your health?

As non-alcoholic beer grows in popularity, some are wondering if it is really good for your health!

During an aperitif on the terrace, after a sporting event, with friends… the consumption of non-alcoholic beer has become more and more frequent in recent years. On the other hand, some wonder if it is really good for your health.

Is non-alcoholic beer safe?

According to Eurostat, in 2024, the production of non-alcoholic beer in Europe increased by 13.5%, while that of traditional beer fell by 5%. The first reason why it is so attractive is the absence (or almost) of alcohol.

Indeed, according to French regulations, a drink can be qualified as “alcohol-free” if it contains less than 1.2% alcohol. In reality, most non-alcoholic beers display a rate between 0% and 0.5%.

“Even with such a low alcohol level, there is no dose that is safe for health”revealed Mélissa Mialon, doctor of nutrition in an interview with our colleagues at Actu.fr.

Indeed, according to Public Health France, alcohol remains the second cause of avoidable mortality. If non-alcoholic beer seems like a safer choice, it is not completely without risks.

This is particularly the case for pregnant women, who should avoid any type of drink containing alcohol, even in low doses. Know that removing alcohol does not necessarily remove calories.

“The flavored version remains much more caloric”

Indeed, non-alcoholic beer may contain added sugars and more flavorings. “Some of these drinks are so sweet that they are not necessarily better than soda« explained Mélissa Mialon.

Guirec Aubert, beerologist, provided more details to Actu.fr. He emphasized: “Between a dry beer with 4% alcohol and a non-alcoholic beer with a cherry flavor, there is no difference”.

“The flavored version remains much more caloric”he assured. All non-alcoholic beers are therefore not equal. And some can even contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

Another point not to be overlooked: the health safety of alcohol-free beers. A recent study from Cornell University found that these beers are more likely to develop bacteria.

“Alcohol acts as a natural preservative”revealed Guirec Aubert. In a traditional beer, this effect prevents the growth of bacteria.

Creating a new problem

On the other hand, when producing non-alcoholic beer, this natural shield disappears, which can make the drink more vulnerable. Researchers therefore recommend that manufacturers be extra vigilant to avoid any health risks.

Otherwise, fans of this drink could be exposed to contamination problems. While non-alcoholic beer is primarily aimed at people wishing to reduce their alcohol consumption, it also attracts a new audience.

According to Mélissa Mialon, this could even represent a problem: “In reality, it’s not about providing a solution. But rather to create a new habit among those who did not consume alcohol before”.

The popularity of non-alcoholic beer therefore has a double edge. On the one hand, it allows consumers to avoid the harmful effects of alcohol. On the other hand, it introduces sugary drinks, not necessarily healthy, into eating habits.

Clearly, great caution must be exercised with this drink. In fact, it does not represent any health benefits. And can even be quite dangerous. Experts advise consumption in moderation.