23 - Ethanol Content of Beer Sold in the United States: Variation Over Time, Across States and by Individual Drinks

Abstract

Research studies estimating the average alcohol content of beer sold in the United States indicate that beer strength has generally declined over time from around 5% alcohol by volume (% ABV) in the 1950s to a low of 4.5% ABV in 2005. This decline is mainly attributed to the growth in popularity of light beer, with a market share of over 50% in 2005, and to growth in lower alcohol content brands in other categories, particularly Mexican beers among the imported beers. Differences in the popularity of beer types by state also result in varying estimates of average % ABV by state. Some states in recent years have a market share for light beer of over 60%, while others are below 40% and consume more imported and super premium beers. The particularly strong beer types, malt liquor and ice beer, also show substantial variation in market share across states. Individual beer drinks in the United States have been found to be more consistent and to have less alcohol on average than wine or spirits drinks but also to vary by size and alcohol content, especially when served in bars and restaurants. For example, a 16 oz. beer with a strength 7.3% ABV contains nearly two US standard drinks of alcohol. The research presented highlights the importance of obtaining information on drink size and brand or alcohol content in understanding survey response to questions regarding the number of beer drinks consumed and of taking estimates of mean beer % ABV into account when evaluating trends in alcohol consumption or modeling relationships between alcohol consumption from beer and health or other outcomes.