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Why there is suddenly so much lower-strength beer

A government review says the 2023 duty reform multiplied lower-strength beers. One supermarket went from two to more than 30.

Updated 8 November 2026By the Alcohol-Free Beer Guide team

Why there is suddenly so much lower-strength beer — Photo: Envato Elements

Since August 2023, UK alcohol duty has been charged by strength, so lower-strength drinks pay less. A government evaluation published in October 2026 found the change is pushing producers to make lower-strength drinks. One major supermarket went from two low-strength beers (1.3% to 3.4% ABV) in August 2023 to more than 30 by September 2024.

Alcohol-free is growing faster still. IWSR says UK no-alcohol beer grew 20% in 2024 and now makes up more than 2% of all alcohol sales, and expects the no-alcohol market to grow about 7% a year to 2028.

Lower strength, fewer calories

Most of the calories in beer come from alcohol, so stronger beer usually means more calories. Most alcohol-free beers come in between 10 and 25 kcal per 100ml. Our low-calorie ranking lists every one.

Our pick

IMPOSSIBREW Enhanced Lager

IMPOSSIBREW Enhanced Lager has 17 kcal and 0.7g of sugar per 100ml, 60% fewer calories than an alcoholic beer, and won UK's Best Tasting Alcohol-Free Lager at the World Beer Awards.

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