Non-Alcoholic Beers vs. Alcohol: Health Perceptions in Social Life

Looking for a healthier way to enjoy social drinking? Here’s the key takeaway: non-alcoholic beers are rising in popularity as a mindful alternative to alcohol. They offer relaxation, fewer health risks, and fewer calories while keeping the social vibe intact.
Why Non-Alcoholic Beers Are Gaining Ground:
- Health Benefits: Low in calories (as few as 27 per can) and no hangovers.
- Relaxation Without Risks: Functional blends like IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ mimic the calming effects of alcohol without impairing judgment.
- Social Appeal: Over 88% of customers have reduced alcohol intake after trying non-alcoholic options.
- Award-Winning Flavour: Non-alcoholic beers like IMPOSSIBREW® are crafted to taste like traditional beer, earning accolades like the UK's Best Non-Alcoholic Beer (2023).
Quick Comparison: Non-Alcoholic Beer vs. Alcohol
Feature | Non-Alcoholic Beer | Alcoholic Beer |
---|---|---|
Calories | As low as 27 per can | 150+ per serving |
Relaxation | Natural calming effects | Impaired judgment |
Health Risks | Minimal (some restrictions)* | Liver strain, dependency |
Morning After | No hangover | Possible hangover |
Dietary Options | Vegan, gluten-free available | Limited options |
*Not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with certain medical conditions, or those on specific medications.
Non-alcoholic beers are reshaping social drinking. They provide a healthier, mindful way to connect with others without sacrificing wellbeing.
Why Non-Alcoholic Beverages are Becoming a Growing Trend
Health Effects and Safety
Non-alcoholic beers offer more than just a low-alcohol option. Advances in brewing techniques have created drinks that not only taste great but also promote a sense of wellbeing.
Benefits of Non-Alcoholic Options
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is crafted to provide a relaxing experience without affecting physical or mental health. This unique blend is designed to encourage natural relaxation while aligning with weight management goals.
"Designed to imitate the feeling of relaxation induced by traditional beer." – IMPOSSIBREW® [1]
Effects of Regular Alcohol
Traditional alcoholic drinks come with a range of health concerns that can affect both short-term and long-term wellbeing. Unlike non-alcoholic options, regular alcohol consumption may result in:
Impact Area | Short-term Effects | Long-term Concerns |
---|---|---|
Physical Health | Dehydration, hangover | Liver strain, weight gain |
Mental Clarity | Impaired judgment | Memory problems |
Sleep Quality | Disrupted sleep patterns | Poor sleep hygiene |
Social Function | Reduced inhibitions | Risk of dependency |
Side-by-Side Health Comparison
When comparing non-alcoholic functional beers to traditional alcoholic beverages, several health-related differences stand out:
Health Aspect | Non-Alcoholic Functional Beer | Traditional Alcohol |
---|---|---|
Calorie Content | As low as 27 calories [1] | Typically 150+ calories |
Morning After | No hangover | Possible hangover |
Dietary Options | Vegan, gluten-free available [1] | Limited dietary options |
Relaxation Effect | Natural calming benefits [1] | Unpredictable effects |
Health Restrictions | Some medical considerations* | Multiple health risks |
*IMPOSSIBREW® is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with gastrointestinal disorders or hypertension, or those on antidepressants or blood thinners [1].
Consumer trends reflect this growing interest in healthier options. For instance, 88% of IMPOSSIBREW® customers have reduced their alcohol intake since discovering these functional alternatives [1]. These comparisons highlight how beverage choices can influence both personal health and social experiences.
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Social Settings and Drinking Choices
Data reveals noticeable changes in what people choose to drink in social settings, building on the earlier discussion about health awareness. These changes highlight a shift towards mindful drinking and prioritising personal wellbeing.
Non-Alcoholic Drinks in Social Settings
Today’s non-alcoholic options are designed to replicate the experience of traditional drinks while supporting a healthier lifestyle. Packed with functional ingredients, these alternatives help people stay socially engaged without compromising clarity or control.
Take consumer feedback on IMPOSSIBREW® as an example:
Social Aspect | Consumer Experience | Impact |
---|---|---|
Social Connection | 95% of consumers have recommended the brand [1] | Drives organic word-of-mouth growth |
Relaxation Effect | 71% felt more relaxed after trying Social Blend™ [1] | Encourages natural social comfort |
Health-Conscious Choice | 88% reported cutting back on alcohol [1] | Supports healthier social habits |
These stats underline the growing popularity of non-alcoholic options, with over one million IMPOSSIBREW® beers sold so far [1].
Alcohol's Role in Social Events
Alcohol has traditionally been a key part of social occasions, but with increasing awareness of its health effects, many are rethinking their choices. More people are opting for alternatives that offer the same social vibe without the downsides of alcohol.
For instance, 75% of surveyed consumers recognise IMPOSSIBREW® as the most complete alcohol alternative [1]. Its high rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,000 reviews highlights how well it meets the expectations of social drinkers [1]. Industry recognition further strengthens this trust, with IMPOSSIBREW®'s Lager and Pale varieties being named the UK's best non-alcoholic beers at the 2023 World Beer Awards [1].
Next, we’ll dive into how these beverages stack up in terms of flavour, a key factor in their growing appeal.
Flavour and Experience
The taste of beer involves more than just flavour - it includes aroma, texture, and the overall sensory experience. Advances in brewing technology have reshaped how non-alcoholic beers are made, bringing them closer to their alcoholic counterparts.
Non-Alcoholic Beer Taste Profile
New brewing techniques have greatly improved the ability to replicate the beer experience without the alcohol. IMPOSSIBREW® uses a specialised cryogenic fermentation process that maintains the beer's natural qualities while preserving its nuanced flavours. This approach has earned acclaim, with their Lager and Pale varieties being named the UK's best non-alcoholic beers at the 2023 World Beer Awards [1].
Key elements of taste are carefully managed during this process:
Taste Element | Traditional Beer | IMPOSSIBREW® Approach |
---|---|---|
Mouthfeel | Alcohol adds body | 0.5% ABV ensures body and texture |
Flavour Complexity | Derived from fermentation | Cryogenic process retains delicate flavours |
Finish | Warmth from alcohol | Social Blend™ provides a relaxing finish |
In blind taste tests, the results have been striking. IMPOSSIBREW® shared:
"We tested one on a friend who didn't even realise it wasn't the real thing" [1]
Deborah Meaden also praised the product, saying:
"It tastes lovely, it really tastes good" [1]
Unlike traditional beers, which rely heavily on alcohol to deliver their sensory experience, non-alcoholic options like these are crafted to offer a similar satisfaction without the same reliance.
Standard Beer Characteristics
Alcoholic beers owe much of their flavour and texture to the fermentation process, where alcohol is a key component. However, research spanning over two years has shown that a 0.5% ABV can enhance flavour and mouthfeel without increasing blood alcohol concentration (BAC) [1].
This dedication to quality has clearly struck a chord with consumers, as evidenced by an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating from over 1,000 reviews [1]. These achievements highlight how non-alcoholic beers can deliver the complex flavours and satisfaction traditionally associated with alcoholic beverages.
Conclusion
Social drinking is changing, blending tradition with a focus on wellness. IMPOSSIBREW® has introduced new approaches like Social Blend™ and cryogenic fermentation, reshaping how people enjoy drinks together. Recent data shows most people now prefer non-alcoholic options for improved social and health outcomes. This reflects a growing trend towards mindful drinking, where connecting with others remains key without sacrificing personal wellbeing.
These non-alcoholic beers come with benefits, such as just 6 calories per 100ml [1]. Additionally, three-quarters of consumers view these beers as the best alternative to traditional options [1]. Recognition as the UK's Best Non-Alcoholic Beer at the 2023 World Beer Awards [1] highlights this shift in how people approach social drinking.
With over one million IMPOSSIBREW® beers sold [1], the rise of non-alcoholic beers isn't just about removing alcohol - it's about enhancing the drinking experience. This marks a new chapter in mindful drinking, where enjoying moments with others aligns perfectly with prioritising wellness.
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Got Questions?
Find our most commonly asked questions below or ask our AI Brewer for instant answers.
What is IMPOSSIBREW®?
IMPOSSIBREW® is a pioneering non-alcoholic beer brand based in the UK that aims to create the world's most complete alcohol alternative using patent-pending technology.
Founded by Mark Wong in 2021 and working with some of the world's best professors, scientists and expert brewers, IMPOSSIBREW® specialises in expertly crafted non-alcoholic beers designed to match full ABV beers in both taste and feeling.
Product Range
IMPOSSIBREW® offers a range of enhanced non-alcoholic beers, including:
- Enhanced Lager (0.5% ABV)
- Enhanced Pale Ale (0.5% ABV)
- Limited Editions (Seasonal)
Key Benefits
The key feature that sets IMPOSSIBREW® apart is its proprietary "Social Blend™" - a combination of active botanical ingredients and nootropics using patent-pending technology* designed to recreate the relaxing effects of alcohol without the negative side effects.
Along with record-breaking quality flavour that comes from a unique process without removing alcohol.
Social Blend™ Ingredients
Developed with leading scientists in top UK universities, Social Blend™ includes:
- L-Theanine
- Ashwaghanda
- Soluble Plant Fibres
- Vitamin B1
- Various Plant Extracts.
These ingredients are chosen for their potential to boost serotonin, promote relaxation, and create a calming effect similar to the "one or two pint feeling" without hangovers.
See more details on our very own research paper, with over 1,000 participants:
- More than 70% said they felt relaxed after consuming IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 88% have reduced alcohol consumption since discovering IMPOSSIBREW®.
- 95% have told a friend about IMPOSSIBREW® after trying.
- 3/4 say that IMPOSSIBREW® is "the most complete alcohol alternative currently available on the market today".
Recognition
IMPOSSIBREW® has received several notable achievements:
- Featured on BBC's Dragons' Den
- Awarded the first and only Gold Medal in the No/Low beer category from the London Beer Competition
- Received multiple industry Gold awards in categories against Full-ABV beers
- Most followed No/Low Alcohol brand on TikTok globally.
Mission and Vision
IMPOSSIBREW® is on a mission to redefine non-alcoholic drinking by creating better-than-alcohol alternatives for those who love beer but want to avoid the health risks associated with alcohol consumption.
The company aims to become the global leading alcohol alternative brand, focusing on helping people transition to a healthier mode of relaxation without the traditional issues and side effects of alcohol.
Production and Ingredients
IMPOSSIBREW® combines traditional brewing methods with their proprietary Social Blend™ along with patent-pending technology*
The beers are made with traditional brewing ingredients such as water, malted barley, wheat, hops, and yeast, in addition to the Social Blend™ components - leveraging their unique cryogenic fermentation process, which means no alcohol is ever removed from the product - ensuring the most authentic quality taste you've come to expect.
Who is it for?
IMPOSSIBREW® caters to consumers who:
- Are busy professionals and parents who would like to unwind with a drink but don't want the hangovers.
- Enjoy the taste and relaxing experience of beer
- Are looking for healthier alternatives to alcohol, with lower calories, carbs and sugar
- Want to avoid hangovers and other negative effects of alcohol consumption
- Are interested in functional beverages with potential mood-enhancing properties
By offering a unique product that aims to replicate both the taste and feeling of alcoholic beer, IMPOSSIBREW® is positioning itself at the forefront of the growing non-alcoholic beverage market.
Get Started Today
Give it a try today with our Welcome Bundle and get 2 Free Beers with your first purchase. Get it delivered straight to your door, risk-free with our 30-day money-back guarantee.
We hope you enjoy them as much as we do and we can't wait for you to try.
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
How does 'Social Blend™' work?
Social Blend™ is our proprietary alcohol alternative made from a blend of science-backed ingredients using patent-pending technology*.
Designed to replicate the sensory and social relaxing experience of drinking, minus the headaches (and bad decisions).
Developed with Dr Paul Chazot, Bioscience Professor and Chair of Pharmacology at Durham University.
Key Components and Mechanisms
- L-Theanine:
- Ashwagandha Root:
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamine):
- Various nootropic herbs:
Benefits
- Relaxation: The blend promotes a state of relaxation without the sedative effects typically associated with alcohol.
- Mental Calm: By boosting alpha brain waves and serotonin levels, it helps maintain a calm and focused mental state.
- Stress Relief: The combination of L-Theanine, Ashwagandha, and Vitamin B1 helps mitigate stress and anxiety.
- Mood Enhancement: The inclusion these ingredients and other botanicals supports mood regulation and overall positive outlook.
IMPOSSIBREW®'s Social Blend™ is a carefully crafted combination of nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients designed to offer a relaxing and mood-enhancing experience without the drawbacks of alcohol. It leverages the natural properties of its components to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance mood, making it a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages.
(Read our latest research paper here)
*Patent pending in the UK under application number GB2415685.3
Do you ship overseas?
We ship to the UK Mainland for free when you spend over £35
We aim to expand internationally soon - stay tuned!
If you have any queries, feel free to email: hello(@)impossibrew.co.uk
How long will it take to get my orders?
For UK mainland deliveries, normal orders processed here will take 1-3 business days to arrive, with an optional upgrade to Next Day Delivery available (12pm cut-off).
Delivery details will be provided in your confirmation email.
How is 0.5% ABV alcohol-free?
Yes, we know it's confusing. Isn't 0.5% ABV still alcoholic? Officially, 0.5% ABV is classified as Dealcoholised.
- In fact, most things we consume daily have more than 0.5% ABV
- Burger Rolls - 1.2% ABV
- Orange Juice - 0.5% ABV
- Ripe Banana - 0.5% ABV
After more than 2 years of research, we've found that the 0.5% ABV from our natural brewing process significantly increases both flavour and mouthfeel - without spiking your blood alcohol level (BAC).
Is it really gluten-free?
Yes, IMPOSSIBREW® Enhanced Lager is gluten-free. Even though it contains wheat and barley, our beers have been third-party tested to contain less than 10 parts per million (PPM) of gluten, which meets the criteria to be listed as, and labeled gluten-free.
Does it have alcohol tax?
No. While it is true that our beers don't contain alcohol, and thus don't incur UK alcohol duty, we'd like to highlight some factors here that might be helpful in reflecting the value we provide.
- One-to-One Brewing Process: At IMPOSSIBREW, we take pride in our unique brewing techniques. Unlike other non-alcoholic beers, our products are never diluted, watered-down, or have their alcohol content removed - and some even dilute their alcoholic beers up to 5x. This means that our brewing process involves the same level of craftsmanship, time, and resources as a traditional craft beer, resulting in comparable production costs.
- Effective Nootropics: In our commitment to creating the most relaxing non-alcoholic beers, we utilise only the highest quality nootropics as our active ingredients, in safe and effectives dosages. At current alcohol tax rates for a 5% ABV beer, the cost of our nootropics more than double that. Instead of contributing the amounts as tax, why not have it contribute to the product quality itself?
- Small Scale Brewing: Currently, we operate on a smaller scale, which makes us less competitive than large, commercial brewers (often +10,000x our brewing size). As a growing business, we are passionate about our mission to create unique, high-quality non-alcoholic experiences, and we truly appreciate your support. As we continue to grow and expand our production capabilities, we look forward to passing on even more savings to our valued community!
At IMPOSSIBREW, we prioritise offering our customers an enhanced, premium, non-alcoholic beer experience by combining innovative brewing techniques, quality active nootropic ingredients, and award-winning taste. While our pricing may differ from other non-alcoholic competitors, we believe that the value proposition and unique experience our beers provide are well worth it.
At the end of the day, tasting is believing. So give it a try and let us know what you think - risk-free with our IMPOSSIBREW® Guarantee.
Who shouldn't drink IMPOSSIBREW®?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with certain medical conditions like GI disorders or hypertension, or individuals taking specific medications such as antidepressants or blood thinners. If you fall into any of these categories, it's best to consult with your doctor first.
Ashwagandha can lead to overstimulation (i.e. restlessness) if taken alongside thyroid medication.
What is your philosophy?
For thousands of years, we had only one way to unwind together. One way to let our guards down. One way to bridge the gap between who we are and who we are with others.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was all we had.
We decided that wasn't good enough.
We exist because we believe in a world where social connection doesn't demand compromise.
Where being present with others doesn't mean being absent from yourself. Where letting go doesn't mean losing control.This isn't about removing alcohol. This is about something better.
Our Social Blend™ technology isn't an accident. It's the result of questioning everything we thought we knew about social drinking. About working with scientists to understand what we're really seeking in these moments of connection. About daring to imagine something that wasn't possible before.
We believe the greatest innovations don't just solve problems - they change how we live. They make us question why we ever settled for less.
That's what we're building. Not just a drink, but a new way forward. A future where social connection comes without compromise. Where tradition meets innovation. Where science meets ritual.
This is the future of social drinking.