As low-alcohol beverages grow in popularity, particularly among pregnant women, experts warn that clearer labelling is essential to distinguish them from alcohol-free alternatives. A recent University of Plymouth survey conducted on behalf of Alcohol Change UK reveals that seven in ten pregnant women have consumed “no/lo” alcohol drinks during pregnancy, even though over half feel there is insufficient information on their safety.
The study surveyed more than 2,000 women who were either currently or recently pregnant. Among those, 71% reported drinking no/lo drinks, with 72% believing these were a safer substitute for alcoholic beverages. Additionally, 69% felt these drinks helped them feel socially included at events where alcohol is typically served. Despite this, 55% indicated they had not received any guidance about no/lo drinks from healthcare providers such as midwives or GPs.
When asked about the acceptability of different drinks during pregnancy and breastfeeding, 78% considered clearly labelled 0% alcohol or alcohol-free drinks to be very acceptable during pregnancy, and 80% during breastfeeding. However, only 11% felt low-alcohol drinks (containing 0.5-1.2% alcohol by volume) were very acceptable during pregnancy, although this rose to 40% during breastfeeding.
READ MORE: Calls Intensify to Ban Uber in the Cotswolds Over Concerns from Local Taxi Drivers
READ MORE: Plans for 280 Homes and New Hotel Proposed on Newent Outskirts
Ailar Hashemzadeh, Director of Research and Public Affairs at Alcohol Change UK, explained: “While many expectant mothers try to avoid alcohol, the availability of alcohol-free and low-alcohol beers, wines, and cocktails offers a way to enjoy social drinks without the risks. Yet, this research highlights significant uncertainty, especially around drinks that contain small amounts of alcohol. Clear, trusted professional advice and improved labelling are vital as this market continues to expand.”
Alcohol Change UK is urging clearer differentiation on labelling for low-alcohol drinks, particularly those ranging from 0.05 to 1.2% ABV. They recommend that healthcare professionals receive up-to-date information to provide consistent advice about consumption during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The charity also stresses the importance of including specific guidance about no/alcohol and low-alcohol beverages in public health information for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Dr. Kate Maslin, Senior Research Fellow in Maternal and Child Health at the University of Plymouth and lead on the project, noted: “Alcohol-free drinks are increasingly popular with pregnant women aiming to make safer choices socially. However, our findings show that information about their safety, especially concerning alternatives with low alcohol content, has not kept pace, leaving many women uncertain.”
She added that the World Health Organization advises there is no known safe level of alcohol consumption during pregnancy, which contributes to pregnant women relying on the internet and social media for guidance—sources that often offer conflicting or inaccurate information.
“Alongside further studies on the safety of these drinks during pregnancy, it’s crucial for health professionals supporting pregnant women to have the right resources to offer clear, consistent advice,” Dr. Maslin concluded.