Drinking less: the low and no shelf, explained
Photo: Anhelina Vasylyk / Pexels
This page is for adults aged 18 and over. Lots of people are drinking less, whether that's fewer nights, smaller measures or alcohol-free altogether. Here's how to find your way around the low and no shelf.
What the labels mean in the UK
- Alcohol-free: 0.05% ABV or less.
- De-alcoholised: alcohol removed, down to 0.5% ABV or less.
- Low alcohol: 1.2% ABV or less.
- "0.5%": many alcohol-free beers are up to 0.5% ABV, the same as some fruit juices and breads. If you avoid alcohol completely, look for 0.0% or 0.05%.
Labelling rules change from time to time, so check the bottle.
Smaller, slower, fewer
- Halves and minis. Half-pints, small cans and 125ml wine glasses are all options.
- Alternate. Have a soft drink or water between alcoholic ones.
- Make it feel special. A good glass, lots of ice and a slice of citrus make a soft drink feel like an occasion.
Three easy mocktails
- Citrus spritz: orange and lemon juice topped with soda water, over plenty of ice.
- Ginger and lime: fiery ginger beer with fresh lime and mint.
- Berry shrub: a spoonful of crushed berries, a dash of apple cider vinegar and sparkling water.
Kit for the drinks shelf
- Small tumbler glasses. Amazon link coming soon
- A cocktail shaker for mocktails. Amazon link coming soon
- Big ice-cube trays. Amazon link coming soon
If you're worried about how much you drink, your GP can help, and Drinkaware has free tools.