Low-Carb Beers are Making a Comeback

Looks like low-carb beer is reclaiming its spot. While hard seltzer once dominated, the thirst for lighter beers—previously aimed mostly at women—has resurfaced, despite their simpler flavors. It’s interesting how trends shift, isn’t it?

According to Michael Volmer from the Kimpton Grey Hotel in Chicago, the surge in health-conscious behavior, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, is shifting preferences. “People want to enjoy social moments without compromising their health goals,” he mentioned. It seems that balance is key these days.

Michelob Ultra, the frontrunner in this space, has experienced sales growth of over 3% this June compared to last year, even as broader beer sales decline, as observed by the Wall Street Journal.

Catherine Benecke, from Treadwell Park in New York City, is producing full-bodied, low-carb beers, yet finds that this trend poses challenges for innovation. “Brewers are moving beyond the old ‘light’ stereotypes, crafting bold and flavorful brews that keep carbs and blood sugar spikes low,” she said. And when they are crafted well, low-carb beers can really be beneficial for everyone, regardless of diet.

“They help reduce blood sugar spikes,” Benecke adds. “This maintains sustainable energy levels, aids digestion, and generally makes them easier on the stomach and palate.” It sounds thoughtful, is it not?

Many beers like IPAs, ales, and stouts can pack in roughly 20 grams of carbohydrates, which is a considerable amount—comparable to half a serving of white rice. Yet, there’s a handful of low-carb options available now.

Top Low-Carb Beer Choices

• 1. Dogfish Head 30 Spectroscopic IPA – This light IPA has 95 calories, 3.6 grams of carbs, and 4% ABV, presenting a delightful mix of citrus, mango, and pineapple flavors.
• 2. Blue Moonslight – This one offers a unique mix of herbal citrus, only 95 calories, and 3.6 grams of carbohydrates, at 4% ABV. Quite impressive!
• 3. Garage Beer Lime – A lighter citrus option at 95 calories and 3 grams of carbs with 4% ABV, stepping up from typical garage beers.
• 4. Partake IPA – A non-alcoholic choice with no carbohydrates and just 10 calories. An interesting option if you’re looking for something different.
• 5. Lagunitas Daytime IPA – With 98 calories, 3 grams of carbohydrates, and 4% ABV, this beer delivers a refreshing, full-bodied taste.
• 6. Michelob Ultra – This beer stands strong as a leading choice at 95 calories, 2.6 grams of carbs, and 4.2% ABV.
• 7. Heineken Silver – Notably similar in taste to its regular counterpart, this beer offers a familiar, sweet malt profile with just 95 calories and 2.9 grams of carbs.

Interestingly, the judges gave honorable mentions to Miller Lite, Miller 64 ExtraLite, Kona Light Blonde Ale, and Budweiser Select 55. It’s fascinating, really—everyone has their preferences, and with this variety, there’s surely something for everyone.

Benecke remarked on the Ommegang Brut IPA as a solid low-carb choice and also highlighted the sour beers like Berliner Weisse and Gose for their elegant dryness, which can also be lower in carbohydrates. It’s nice to know there are appealing options out there that align with dietary choices.

As beer enthusiasts seek enjoyment without losing sight of their health goals, it will be interesting to see how the market evolves. Does a balance of taste and health create a better experience all around? Time will tell.