Why is Alcohol Free Beer So Expensive?
Alcohol-free beer often carries a price tag comparable to or even higher than its alcoholic counterparts, despite the absence of alcohol duties. This cost disparity arises from the complex production processes, specialised ingredients, and additional technology required to maintain the taste and quality of non-alcoholic beer, as well as the smaller production volumes.
The Complex Production Process
Producing alcohol-free beer involves several intricate methods to ensure the final product retains the taste and quality of traditional beer. One common approach is de-alcoholisation, where alcohol is removed from the beer post-fermentation through techniques like boiling, vacuum distillation, or reverse osmosis.
These methods can affect flavour due to the removal of volatile compounds that come with the removal of alcohol, which negatively affects taste. Another method is dilution, where water is added to reduce alcohol content.
Some brands eliminating fermentation altogether ensures a 0.00% ABV but results in a sweeter taste, somewhat like a beer flavoured soft drink. These options are typically cheaper than the following one.
The most expensive option is cryogenic fermentation, as it involves restricting fermentation through sub-zero temperatures. This method, known as natural cryogenic fermentation, ensures that the beer is brewed 1 to 1, maintaining the full flavour profile without the need for dilution.
Although this process is time-consuming and costly due to the specialised equipment and energy required, it is considered the best option for preserving the beer's body, taste, and overall quality. This technique avoids the flavour compromises associated with other methods like boiling or reverse osmosis, making it a preferred choice for premium non-alcoholic beers, like this one.
Economies of Scale
Economies of scale play a significant role in the alcohol-free beer market, allowing established players to reduce production costs per unit and offer competitive pricing. As production volumes increase, the cost advantages become more pronounced, benefiting larger manufacturers who can invest in advanced technologies to reduce costs and increase profitability. However, this is not available for small, independent producers.
The Role of Premium Ingredients
The role of premium ingredients in alcohol-free beer production is pivotal in achieving a high-quality product that can compete with traditional beers. Premium ingredients, such as specialty malts, organic oats, and high-quality hop extracts, are often used to enhance the flavour, aroma, and mouthfeel of non-alcoholic beers. Additionally, the use of unmalted oats can provide a smooth, creamy texture, while specialty grains like light crystal can add body and balancing sweetness to the beer.
These high-quality ingredients not only improve the sensory attributes of the beer but also contribute to its stability and shelf life, making premium non-alcoholic beers a desirable choice for discerning consumers.
Large beer companies often avoid using premium ingredients due to cost considerations and the scale of their production. Premium ingredients, such as specialty malts and high-quality hop extracts, are more expensive and can significantly increase production costs.
For mass-produced beers, maintaining a low cost per unit is crucial to remain competitive in the market. Instead, these companies frequently use cheaper alternatives like hop extracts and caramel colouring to achieve desired flavours and appearances without the higher expenses associated with premium ingredients.
Additionally, the lack of regulatory requirements for ingredient disclosure allows these companies to use cost-effective additives without informing consumers, further reducing production costs. This approach enables large beer manufacturers to maximise profits while maintaining a broad market presence.
Next Generation Ingredients: Social Blend™
Some non-alcoholic beers incorporate a proprietary blend known as Social Blend™, which includes nootropic and adaptogenic ingredients like L-Theanine, Ashwagandha root and many others, designed to replicate the relaxing effects of alcohol without its negative consequences. This blend aims to enhance relaxation, mental calm, and stress relief by interacting positively with brain receptors and boosting alpha brain waves.
Despite the potential benefits, such as improved mood and reduced stress, the inclusion of these specialised ingredients increases production costs, making these beers more expensive.
Best Overall Alcohol-Free Beer
IMPOSSIBREW® stands out as the best overall option for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake due to several key factors. Its unique Social Blend™ aids relaxation, providing a satisfying experience without the need for alcohol.
With only 27 calories per 440ml can, equivalent to 6 calories per 100ml, it is one of the lowest-calorie alcohol-free beers available. Additionally, it contains no sugar, is 100% vegan, and has been awarded the UK's best-tasting alcohol-free beer by the World Beer Awards.
IMPOSSIBREW also has a minimal alcohol content of 0.5% ABV, which is less than that found in a ripe banana or orange juice, making it a safe choice for those avoiding alcohol.Furthermore, they offer a gluten-free option with their lager, catering to a wider range of dietary needs, and works out at £2.24 when you go on a flexible plan per 440ml can, making it a good brand for value, including all their additional benefits.
The use of cryogenic fermentation further enhances the flavour and quality of their beers, solidifying IMPOSSIBREW as a top choice in the non-alcoholic beer markets.
If you fancy a taste, try their Welcome Bundle with a love-it-or-return-it guarantee today at http://impossibrew.co.uk/welcome
FAQs
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 and to Northern Ireland (additional courier charges may apply).
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.