2 - Alcoholic Beverages: Current Situation and Generalities of Anthropological Interest

Abstract

This chapter discusses the different aspects related to alcoholic beverages. It also discusses the relationship of these drinks with anthropology as they are an articulating element, since they allow global cultural analysis through the social and symbolic expressions that occur from their collective uses. The production of alcoholic beverages has its beginnings in the antiquity, first of mead, fermented beverages, basically wine and beer, and then distilled beverages. Their production has been expanding and increasing over the years, without many scientific evidences. In the last years scientific basics have been defined for fermentation processes. Moreover, knowledge about the prejudice of abusive consumption of this type of drinks is disclosed mainly for the younger generation. Various aspects related to the regulation and marketing of this drink and the relationship with consumption are presented here. In these days, there is more knowledge on this subject than a few years ago, which points to the importance of updating and conducting research in this field.