Non-alcoholic beer may contain trace amounts of alcohol

Products marketed as non-alcoholic beer do not always contain 0.0% alcohol. In the United States, beverages containing less than 0.5% alcohol by volume are classified as ‘non-alcoholic,’ whereas the term ‘alcohol-free’ implies a total absence of alcohol.

Manufacturers use various methods to produce these drinks, such as dilution or vacuum distillation to reduce alcohol levels. Achieving a true 0.0% concentration requires additional, more expensive processing steps that can impact the flavor of the beverage.

This distinction is critical for specific consumer groups. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists warns that no amount of alcohol is considered safe during pregnancy. Similarly, individuals with certain health conditions, such as liver disease, may need to avoid even trace amounts of alcohol.