How to Choose Non-Alcoholic and Low Alcohol Beers
Non-alcoholic or low alcohol? They are not the same thing. This guide explains the concrete differences, when to choose one or the other, and how to navigate the available styles.
What is the difference between non-alcoholic and low alcohol?
- Non-alcoholic beer (0.0–0.5% ABV): legally considered "alcohol-free," safe for driving, suitable during pregnancy and for everyone.
- Low alcohol beer (0.5–3% ABV): light but with more character and body compared to non-alcoholic beers. Consume responsibly.
- Regular beer: 4–6% ABV — 80–100% alcohol reduction in non-alcoholic versions.
How are they produced?
- Limited fermentation: fermentation stopped early with special yeasts — preserves natural aromas.
- Dealcoholization: normal production followed by alcohol removal (vacuum evaporation or reverse osmosis) — better flavor retention.
- Dilution: less common, lower quality.
When to choose non-alcoholic beer
- You need to drive
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Low-calorie diet
- Business lunch
- After sports or gym
- Daily consumption without effects
When to choose low alcohol
- You want more body and character than non-alcoholic
- Evening aperitif with moderate consumption
- Pairing with structured dishes at the table
- You prefer a profile closer to traditional beer
Available styles
- Non-alcoholic Lager: light, refreshing, easy to drink — perfect for summer
- Non-alcoholic IPA: hoppy, citrusy, bitter but balanced
- Non-alcoholic Weiss: fruity, banana notes, refreshing
- Non-alcoholic Stout: dark, coffee and chocolate notes, full-bodied
- Session IPA (low alcohol): low ABV with all the hoppy character
How to read the label
- ABV: alcohol percentage — look for 0.0% or <0.5% for non-alcoholic
- Calories: often 30–50% less than the alcoholic version
- Method: dealcoholized or limited fermentation
- Certifications: organic, vegan, gluten free
- Expiration date: freshness matters
Food pairings
- Lager: pizza, pasta, grilled fish, salads
- IPA: veggie burgers, spicy dishes, fresh cheeses, curry
- Weiss: fresh salads, fish, summer dishes
- Stout: chocolate desserts, aged cheeses, sweets
Want to explore the best craft non-alcoholic beers? Discover the guide to craft non-alcoholic beers →
Browse the full selection of non-alcoholic and low alcohol beers on Maltese — shipping throughout Italy. 🍺
