Non-Alcoholic Beer: 10 Best Alcohol Free Beers in Australia

Searches and purchases for non alcoholic beer are on the rise in Australia, but for those not familiar with the ins and outs of alcohol free beer, making the right choice can be daunting.

Here’s everything you need to know about it and the best non alcoholic beer in Australia.

What is non-alcoholic beer?

Non-alcoholic beer is exactly what it sounds like, a beer with zero or extremely low alcohol (0.05% is the standard). The beverage still contains the same ingredients as regular beer, it is just cooked longer to evaporate any alcohol, allowing the hoppy taste of beer to remain but alcohol free beer is the final product instead of regular beer. Along with other low alcohol drinks, non-alcoholic beer is growing rapidly in popularity as the rate of Australians drinking in excess has been in a steady decline since 2010 (source: Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).

There’s a number of reasons why people may choose to drink non-alcoholic beer. It’s a great choice for those who have struggled with alcohol addiction or are unable to drink alcohol for health or religious reasons, but still enjoy the taste. It’s also a good beverage for designated drivers, pregnant women or just those looking to cut back who aren’t quite satisfied with soft drink or water. Despite it being alcohol free, it may not be suitable for those aged under 18.

DID YOU KNOW? Non-alcoholic beer has been around since Medieval times as it was often safer to drink than contaminated water

Is non-alcoholic beer good for you?

Compared to a standard beer, which is 4.8% alcohol and on average contains 126 calories, non-alcoholic beer contains zero or 0.5% alcohol and on average contains 88 calories, making it a much better beer choice for the waistline. Some studies have suggested that alcohol free beer has some antioxidant properties and can boost immunity thanks to the polyphenols in beer.

If you’re looking for a low carb alcohol option though, non-alcoholic beer may not be the best choice as it still contains a hefty dose of carbohydrates, and the same goes for those who want low sugar alcohol options, as low alcohol beer still contains some sugars.

Here are ten best non-alcoholic beers:

10. Erdinger Low Alc, Wheat Beer

Strictly brewed in line with the German beer methods, this wheat beer has a full strength finish that will please any beer lover.

$15.99 (six-pack), Dan Murphy’s

9. UNN Non Alcoholic, IPA

A medium bodied beer with classic Indian pale ale citrus, the UNN non alcoholic beer also offers hints of pine, caramel and tea.

$4.12 (per bottle), Dan Murphy’s

8. Bitburger Drive, Lager

This lager tastes almost exactly the same as the alcoholic Bitburger beer, a huge win for an alcohol free variety. The German beer is a fully matured with a lasting, almost sweet taste.

$11.50 (six-pack), BWS

7. Holsten, Pilsener

Brewed using traditional pilsener brewing techniques, the slightly bitter Holsten has a crisp and clean aftertaste.

$11.99 (six-pack), Dan Murphy’s

6. Coopers Ultra Light Birell, Lager

A full malty flavour awaits with the Coopers Ultra Light Birell. Made with no sugar, Australian malted barley, hops and yeast, it’s a simple brew with big impact.

$8.30 (six-pack), Coles

5. Carlton Zero, Ale

If you’re looking for a classic beer without the alcohol, Carlton Zero is the one. The ale has the full flavour of a regular beer with hints of citrus and hops.

$38.00 (case of 24 bottles), Liquorland

4. Hollandia Non Alcoholic Beer, Lager

The Dutch know their beer and Hollandia upholds their reputation with a crisp and rich malt blend that leaves a smooth finish to this alcohol free lager.

$8.00 (four-pack), BWS

3. Adnams Ghost Ship Alcohol Free, Pale Ale

Classic pale ale citrus flavours meet hopping hops in this alcohol free beer that is great anytime, but especially perfect for a hot Australian summer.

$10.00 (four-pack), BWS

2. Heineken Zero, Lager

With a distinct balanced taste of malt and fruity notes, this non-alcoholic beer retains the traditional lager taste with its double brewing and fermentation process.

$12.99 (six-pack), Dan Murphy’s

1. Sobah beer, Pepperberry IPA

Hoppy and citrusy with a spicy twist from native Australian Pepperberry trees, this alcohol free craft beer is vegan friendly, chemical free and locally made.

$18.00 (four-pack), selected stockists or online at Sobah.com.au

Lottie Dalziel

Lottie Dalziel, is a 4AM riser and coffee-addict who lives and breathes all things food. When she isn't reading up on the latest trends in sustainability or discovering ways to upcycle almost anything, you can find her by the beach, cooking up a storm or adding to her abundant (some would say out of control) plant collection.