When it comes to non-alcoholic beverages, have you ever wondered what the difference is between:
De-alcoholized, Alcohol Removed, Non-Alcoholic and Alcohol Free?
Well, you’re not alone so let’s clear some things up...
De-alcoholized, Alcohol Removed and Non-Alcoholic essentially mean the same thing!
These drinks start as alcoholic beverages but undergo a process to extract or remove the alcohol and significantly reduce the ABV (alcohol by volume) typically below 0.5%. This means you get the flavors without the buzz!
Think of it as the best of both worlds. Perfect for everyone, including designated drivers, moms-to-be, and those who might not want the effects of alcohol.
On the other hand a beverage that is Alcohol-Free means that no-alcohol was involved in the process of making these beverages. They might be blends of teas, distilled flavours, spices and extracts.
So WHY do you see some non-alcoholic wines labeled as alcohol free even though they have traces of alcohol? Each brand and country have their own requirements to share ABV. These labeling standards are based on where the product is packaged and/or made.
In Canada we have to indicate that there may be “traces” of alcohol, which is why labels read <0.5% as opposed to alcohol free.
However, another FUN FACT is that these traces are often too low to even be detected and could be compared to the same amount of alcohol you would find in kombucha, a ripened banana or even some breads.
And there you have it folks....If you didn’t know, now you know.
Amber
