How Many Calories in Non Alcoholic Beer

Non alcoholic beer has seen a huge rise in popularity across the UK, driven by demand for lower-calorie, alcohol-free alternatives that still offer the taste of traditional beer. But just because it’s alcohol-free doesn’t mean it’s calorie-free. On average, a 330ml bottle or can of non alcoholic beer contains between 50 and 80 calories, depending on the brand and style. That’s usually fewer calories than regular beer, which can contain anywhere from 130 to 180 calories per bottle  but still enough to consider if you're tracking your intake.

Calorie Count by Brand and Style

Not all non alcoholic beers are created equal. A light lager-style alcohol-free beer, such as Heineken 0.0 or Budweiser Zero, contains around 60 to 70 calories per 330ml bottle. More flavourful options like wheat beers or craft-style 0.0% IPAs tend to sit closer to 80 or even 100 calories, depending on residual sugars.

Some ultra-light options, such as Lucky Saint or BrewDog’s Nanny State, come in lower at around 50 to 60 calories per bottle, while malt-forward or unfiltered styles can climb higher. The calorie difference usually comes from how much sugar or malt is left in the brew after alcohol removal, as well as any flavouring ingredients.

Nutritional Breakdown

Non alcoholic beer typically contains water, malted barley or other grains, hops, and yeast. The fermentation process is either limited or reversed to keep the alcohol content below 0.5%. The result is a beverage that mimics beer in taste, but with drastically less alcohol and fewer calories.

Most of the calories in non alcoholic beer come from carbohydrates, mainly simple sugars and residual malt. A standard 330ml serving often contains around 10 to 18 grams of carbs. Protein is negligible, usually less than 1 gram, and there is no fat or fibre to speak of. Some options may be fortified with vitamins like B12 or folic acid, but most offer little in the way of micronutrients.

Health Benefits

The most obvious benefit of non alcoholic beer is the reduced alcohol content. This lowers the risk of liver strain, dehydration, poor sleep, and long-term health complications linked to regular alcohol consumption. For people who enjoy the taste of beer but want to cut back on alcohol, these drinks offer a satisfying compromise.

Many alcohol-free beers also contain fewer calories than their full-strength counterparts, making them a useful option for those looking to reduce energy intake without giving up the flavour and experience of drinking beer. They can also be hydrating, especially when consumed in moderation.

Downsides to Consider

Despite their lower calorie count, non alcoholic beers can still add up quickly if consumed regularly, especially those with higher residual sugar. The sweet taste in some brands means more simple carbohydrates, which may impact blood sugar and weight if not accounted for.

Some people also assume that “alcohol-free” means healthy and may overconsume, not realising they are still ingesting significant calories. Additionally, non alcoholic beers aren’t always completely alcohol-free, many contain up to 0.5% ABV  so they may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those avoiding alcohol for health or religious reasons.

Impact on Your Diet

In a calorie-controlled diet, non alcoholic beer can be a reasonable inclusion, especially when used to replace higher-calorie alcoholic drinks. A single 330ml bottle with 50 to 70 calories is unlikely to disrupt your nutrition goals, provided the rest of your intake is balanced.

For those trying to reduce alcohol intake without feeling left out socially, non alcoholic beer serves a functional role. It allows you to enjoy the taste and ritual of drinking beer without the intoxication or heavy calorie load. However, relying on these drinks regularly as a substitute for hydration or nutrition isn't recommended, as they offer little in terms of dietary benefit.

Glycaemic Index (GI)

Non alcoholic beer tends to have a moderate glycaemic index due to its carbohydrate content. The malt sugars are quickly absorbed and can cause a mild rise in blood glucose. While the GI is lower than that of sugary soft drinks, it’s still notable, especially in beers with a sweeter finish or higher residual sugars.

Brands that keep carb content low will have a lesser effect on blood sugar, making them a better choice for those watching their glycaemic response. Still, if you have diabetes or insulin resistance, it’s worth checking the label and keeping intake moderate.

How Is Non Alcoholic Beer Made?

There are two primary methods of producing non alcoholic beer. The first involves brewing beer normally, then removing the alcohol through vacuum distillation or reverse osmosis. The second limits fermentation altogether, creating a low-alcohol brew from the start. Each method affects flavour and calorie content differently.

After brewing, the beer is carbonated and bottled like regular beer. Some brands add back aroma hops or malt flavouring to boost the beer-like taste lost during alcohol removal. Others enhance mouthfeel with natural thickeners to replicate the fuller body of alcoholic beer.

Ingredients in Non Alcoholic Beer

Most non alcoholic beers contain water, malted barley or wheat, hops, yeast, and sometimes added natural flavourings. Some may include stabilisers, sweeteners, or acids to adjust taste and shelf life. Gluten is usually present unless specifically removed, and most brands are not suitable for a strict gluten-free diet.

Compared to soft drinks, non alcoholic beer often has fewer additives, but the carbohydrate load can still be meaningful, especially for those drinking multiple servings or choosing sweeter styles.

Healthy Alternatives

If you're looking for an even lower-calorie option, consider sparkling water with a splash of citrus or kombucha, which offers some probiotic benefits and a similar fizzy texture. Herbal iced teas or flavoured waters with no added sugar also provide a refreshing, calorie-light drink that won’t spike blood sugar.

For a more beer-like taste without the sugar, try ultra-light or dry-style alcohol-free beers that emphasise bitterness over sweetness. These tend to have lower carbohydrate content and fewer residual calories, while still delivering the flavour many beer lovers crave.

Summary

Non alcoholic beer contains between 50 and 80 calories per 330ml bottle or can, depending on the brand and style. While lower in calories than traditional beer, it still contributes simple carbs and has a moderate glycaemic index. It's a useful tool for reducing alcohol and calorie intake, but like any drink, it should be consumed mindfully. Checking the label for carb content and choosing drier, lighter varieties can help keep your diet on track while still enjoying a familiar taste.