Alcoholic Beverages
Articles tagged with Alcoholic Beverages
The ‘Ozempic Era’ could shift blame for obesity from individuals to the food industry
The 'Ozempic Era' suggests a paradigm shift in understanding obesity, blaming commercial food systems rather than individual failings. Emerging medical data on GLP-1 agonists may drive policy responses to regulate ultra-processed foods.
Beer and cannabis could share ‘sex switch’, UCD-lead study find
Updated alcohol warning labels may prompt people to cut back: Study
A new study found that updated alcohol warning labels, including those highlighting cancer risk, can better motivate consumers to cut back on drinking. The study used a nationally representative sample of adults and found that the new labels outperformed the current U.S. warning label in encouraging participants to drink less.
New study: high social media use significantly associated with increased odds of alcohol use among adolescents
A new study published at the Pediatric Academic Societies Meeting found that adolescents with high social media use had triple the odds of recent alcohol use compared to non-users. The study suggests that digital literacy and safe online navigation are crucial in reducing exposure to alcohol-related content.
Could glass be dethroned as wine’s top packaging? Researchers unbox consumer perceptions of wine packaging
Researchers found that consumers are willing to pay more for glass wine bottles, with Gen Z willing to spend $35.38. Providing sustainability information about packaging can influence willingness to pay, with a significant discount relative to glass packaging.
Comparable vitamin B6 levels found between nonalcoholic and conventional beers
A study of 65 brews found that many conventional and nonalcoholic beers provide substantial levels of vitamin B6. Nonalcoholic beers have higher vitamin B6 levels than those made using yeast that produces less ethanol.
From stillage to storage: Researchers turn bourbon byproducts into supercapacitors
Scientists developed a process to transform stillage from bourbon production into electrodes for supercapacitors. The resulting devices stored more energy than commercially available ones, offering a potential solution to stabilize the electrical grid with renewable energy.
Birds do it, bees do it … sip alcohol, that is
A study by University of California, Berkeley biologists found detectable alcohol in at least one flower of 26 of the 29 species of plants tested. Hummingbirds and other animals consume small doses throughout the day without apparent effects, but may metabolize ethanol like mammals do.
Awareness of alcohol-cancer link holds steady despite omission from new US dietary guidelines
Public awareness of the link between drinking alcohol and elevated cancer risk has remained unchanged since February 2025, with over half of Americans acknowledging that regular consumption increases cancer risk. The new US dietary guidelines do not mention this link, sparking criticism from health experts.
Survey suggests one million UK adults had drink spiked in previous year
A recent UK survey conducted by Anglia Ruskin University found that approximately 2% of adults reported being victims of drink spiking in the previous 12 months, equating to nearly one million people. Women were more likely to experience spiking, and incidents are often linked to sexual assault, physical assault, theft, or 'pranks'.
The health impacts of alcohol depend on what you drink – and how much
A study of over 340,000 British adults found that low to moderate wine consumption was associated with a significantly lower risk of death compared to spirits, beer, and cider. Moderate wine drinkers had a 21% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease, while even low intake of spirits, beer, or cider was linked to a 9% higher risk.
Adherence to healthy lifestyle and risk of cardiometabolic diseases in individuals with hypertension
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a high-quality diet, moderate exercise, and low alcohol consumption, was associated with lower cardiometabolic disease risk. The study found that adhering to these healthy behaviors reduced the risk of major cardiometabolic diseases independent of medication use.
World’s first rum brewed with high ginjo-aroma–producing fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicusponicus
Researchers at Kumamoto University have developed a new rum using the rare fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces japonicusponicus, producing fruity esters and complex aromas. The resulting 'JAPONICUS RHUM AGRICOLE' offers layered flavors reminiscent of ripe banana and apple.
Adolescent cannabis use may follow the same pattern as alcohol use
A new study based on extensive data from Swedish school surveys found that changes in average cannabis use among adolescents are reflected across the entire group. The distribution of cannabis use has remained highly stable over time, with increases or decreases occurring in parallel across all user groups.
Zero-alcohol ads hook teens
A study of 382 adolescents aged 15–17 found that zero-alcohol advertisements significantly increased their intentions to try full-strength versions. Teenagers who liked the ads showed more positive attitudes toward the brands and clearer intentions to drink.
When influencers raise a glass, young viewers want to join them
A study from Rutgers University suggests that exposure to alcohol in social media drives the desire to drink. Young adults who viewed influencer posts with alcohol were significantly more likely to report increased desire to drink compared to those who watched similar posts without alcohol.
Exposure to alcohol-related social media content and desire to drink among young adults
Exposure to alcohol-related social media content is associated with increased desire to drink among young adults, regardless of prior alcohol use. Social media influencers may contribute to normalization of alcohol consumption among this age group.
How experiences in the womb affect alcohol drinking in adulthood
A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure changed aspects of the dopamine system in rhesus monkeys, influencing how quickly they drank alcohol in adulthood. The researchers also discovered individualized neuroadaptive responses to drinking, which may promote the transition to alcohol use disorder.
Could swapping a cold one for a cannabis beverage help people drink less?
A survey of 438 adults who used cannabis in the past year found that nearly 56% also drank alcoholic beverages, with users more likely to substitute cannabis for alcohol. Respondents reported consuming fewer alcoholic drinks and binge drinking less frequently after starting cannabis beverages.
Takeaways are used to reward and console – study
A study found that ordering takeaway meals is a popular self-gifting option for both rewarding good days and consoling bad days. The research suggests that this may be due to the convenience of taking away daily cooking duties, while also providing a indulgent treat.
Precautionary approach to alcohol-free and low alcohol drinks needed to protect public health, say experts
Nolo drinks have potential to improve public health, especially for heavier drinkers and those in lower socioeconomic groups. However, experts warn of risks such as marketing tactics and encroachment on alcohol-free spaces, calling for a precautionary approach to balance benefits and harms.
Low daily alcohol intake linked to 50% heightened mouth cancer risk in India
A large comparative study found that even low daily alcohol intake increases mouth cancer risk by 50% in India, with locally brewed drinks posing the greatest threat. Chewing tobacco use is also a major contributor to this risk, accounting for up to 62% of cases.
Alcohol causes cancer. A study from IOCB Prague confirms damage to DNA and shows how cells defend against it
Researchers found that alcohol causes DNA damage, which can lead to cancer, and discovered a repair mechanism using the SXE enzyme complex. Individuals with genetic mutations affecting DNA repair may be more susceptible to alcohol-related cancers.
New FAU research strengthens evidence linking alcohol use to cancer
Research from Florida Atlantic University strengthens evidence that alcohol consumption increases cancer risk, particularly for breast, colorectal, and liver cancers. Higher intake and specific groups, such as African Americans and those with obesity or diabetes, are found to be more vulnerable to the risks.
Alcohol-free drinks popular during pregnancy – but new research shows guidelines are lacking
A recent study found that over 70% of pregnant women consume alcohol-free or low-alcohol drinks, primarily for safety reasons. However, many feel there is a need for clearer information and support on the suitability of these alternatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
How to turn water into wine, with raisins
Researchers from Kyoto University found that soaking sun-dried raisins in water can create wine. The process facilitates the growth of yeast and results in higher ethanol concentrations.
Beliefs about the effect of alcohol use on cancer risk in the us adult population
A study found that many US adults believe alcohol has no effect on cancer risk, despite growing evidence linking alcohol use to an increased risk of various cancers. This persistent misbelief contributes to the rising burden of alcohol-related cancers in the country.
MD Anderson shares latest research breakthroughs
Researchers at MD Anderson Cancer Center identified distinct cellular microenvironments in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma tumors, providing a framework to develop therapies that engage the patient's immune system. Additionally, a study found widespread misbeliefs about the cancer risks of alcohol among Americans, highlighting the need f...
Small changes in alcohol intake linked to blood pressure shifts
A large-scale cohort study found that stopping drinking even at low levels can lead to clinically meaningful reductions in blood pressure. Researchers analyzed data from over 359,000 adults and discovered that quantity of alcohol intake is the primary driver of blood pressure changes.
CU Anschutz School of Medicine researchers identify new method for treating alcohol use disorder
Researchers found that tolcapone increases behavioral control in individuals with AUD by activating the prefrontal cortex, which is consistent with the drug's effects on dopamine levels. The study suggests a new mechanism for treating AUD beyond current medications that target the brain's reward system.
Significant rise in use of low/alcohol-free drinks among ‘risky’ UK drinkers in past 5 years
In the past 5 years, there has been a significant increase in the use of low and alcohol-free drinks among 'risky' UK drinkers to cut down on their alcohol intake. The proportion of those using these alternatives rose from 35% in 2020 to 44% in 2024, particularly among older adults and women.
Drinking any amount of alcohol likely increases dementia risk
A large observational study found a U-shaped association between alcohol consumption and dementia risk, with non-drinkers and heavy drinkers at higher risk. Genetic analyses also showed that increased genetic risk for all three exposure levels was associated with an increased risk of dementia.
4 beer and wine discoveries
Recent research published in ACS' Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has made four significant discoveries about beer and wine. The studies explore the haziness and gluten content of beer as well as the astringent taste and potential health impacts of wine.
FAU researchers show adopting healthy habits can improve cognitive decline
A large-scale U.S-based randomized trial shows that intensive lifestyle changes can significantly improve global cognition in older adults at high risk of cognitive decline. The intervention emphasized regular physical activity, healthy diet, cognitive stimulation, and social engagement, leading to clinically meaningful improvements. T...
Why the foam on Belgian beers lasts so long
ETH Zurich researchers discovered that Belgian ales like Tripel and Dubbel have stable foam due to surface viscoelasticity or Marangoni stresses. The study also found that beer foam stability depends on protein content and structure, with LTP1 playing a key role in stabilizing foam.
Embargoed study: Breaking the link between alcohol use and pancreatic cancer
A new model suggests that inhibiting the cellular molecule CREB might relieve damage to the pancreas and thwart tumor development in response to alcohol. The study found that knocking out CREB relieved precancerous and cancerous lesions, even with continued alcohol exposure.
How ‘scrumping’ apes may have given us a taste for alcohol
A new study has coined the term 'scrumping' to describe great apes' fondness for eating ripe, fermented fruit from the forest floor. The researchers suggest that this behavior may have played a significant role in the evolution of human alcohol tolerance.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome linked to worse surgical outcomes, higher costs
A nationwide study found that alcohol withdrawal syndrome significantly increases risks of complications and longer hospital stays after major surgery. Proactive screening and multidisciplinary care can help prevent such complications.
Women more susceptible to certain subjective effects of alcohol during binge drinking episodes
A clinical trial found that women experience stronger subjective effects of acute alcohol intake, such as drunkenness and sedation, compared to men. The study adjusted doses to achieve identical blood alcohol concentrations for both sexes, revealing that women's effects were more intense.
Rice rebels: Research reveals the grain’s brewing benefits
Research by Christian Schubert and Scott Lafontaine reveals rice's brewing benefits, including improved flavor profiles and shorter fermentation times. The study highlights the potential of rice to enhance nonalcoholic beer quality, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional brewing methods.
New study calls for rethink on alcohol policy
A new study by psychologists, linguists, and policy experts reveals that policymakers and drinkers have different ways of framing alcohol consumption. The findings suggest that policies must reflect real-life behaviours and motivations to make a meaningful difference.
ASCO 2025: Alcohol-fueled cancer deaths are on the rise in the US
A new study analyzed trends over time in alcohol-linked cancer mortality across the US, finding nearly double the number of alcohol-related cancer deaths between 1990 and 2021. The burden is highest among men over 55, with liver, colorectal, and esophageal cancers seeing significant increases.
Research reveals ‘forever chemicals’ present in beer
Researchers found PFAS in 95% of tested beers, with highest levels and most diverse mix near the Cape Fear River Basin in North Carolina. The study highlights the need for water treatment upgrades at brewing facilities as regulations on PFAS exposure change.
New color-changing sensor detects alcohol with a smartphone snap
A portable and highly sensitive ethanol sensor has been developed using a copper-based metal–organic framework thin film, enabling precise optical measurements without complex lab equipment. The sensor can visually detect varying ethanol levels, even at low concentrations, and can be integrated with a smartphone app for easy use.
Weight-loss drugs cut alcohol intake by almost two-thirds, research in Ireland suggests
A new study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that weight loss medications liraglutide or semaglutide can cut alcohol intake by nearly two-thirds in just four months. Patients reported a significant reduction in their drinking habits, with some describing the effects as 'effortless'. The study's findings offer promisi...
As a competitive grain for malting, rice may open door to increase domestic demand
Researchers found that using rice malt instead of milled rice in beer brewing can decrease production costs by 2-12%. Malted rice also requires less crop-growing acreage, making it a viable alternative for craft brewers. The study suggests that malting could open up new markets for Arkansas rice and ensure its long-run sustainability.
Legalizing youth-friendly cannabis edibles and extracts and adolescent cannabis use
A serial cross-sectional study found that legalization of cannabis edibles and extracts was associated with an increase in edible cannabis use, cannabis smoking, and overall cannabis use among adolescents. The study highlights the need for stricter policy measures to curb adolescents' access to cannabis edibles and extracts.
Simultaneous alcohol, cannabis use may fuel more drinking
A recent study found that people who use cannabis while drinking alcohol may experience fewer negative effects, potentially fueling more drinking. The study examined 6,334 data entries and found that participants perceived fewer negative impacts when using cannabis simultaneously with alcohol.
Awareness grows of cancer risk from alcohol consumption, survey finds
A survey by the Annenberg Public Policy Center found that over half of Americans believe drinking alcohol increases their chances of developing cancer. The Surgeon General's advisory on alcohol and cancer risk also contributed to increased public awareness, with nearly 3 in 10 respondents saying they would be less likely to accept a dr...
Beer helps grocery stores tap sales in other categories
Grocery store sales increase when beer is introduced, with households visiting more frequently and increasing expenditures by 8% per month. Beer-purchasing households also tend to spend more on related categories like snacks, cheese, and soda.
Retirement may lead to a deterioration in mental health, and alcohol use may worsen the issue, says new study
A new study analyzing US data from over 27,500 participants reveals that retirees show more signs of depression than working individuals, with binge drinking exacerbating the issue. Moderate drinking appears to have fewer depressive symptoms compared to abstaining completely.
More than half of college students report alcohol-related harms from others
A new study reveals that more than half of US college students experience alcohol-related harms caused by others. The findings show that students who identified as White, cisfemale, or transgender, and those living with roommates, were at greater risk. Commonly reported harms included social harm, sleep disruptions, and emotional hurt.
Distilling experts warn people to be on guard for counterfeit and illicit alcohol at home and abroad
Counterfeit spirits cost the EU €3 billion annually, with 25-40% of consumption in some areas. Experts advise monitoring 4 P's: product, price, package, and place of purchase to avoid contaminated alcohol-related deaths. A database is being built to test and compare alcoholic spirits using chemical fingerprints.
Most don’t know that alcohol raises cancer risk
Less than half of Americans know that drinking alcohol raises cancer risk, despite the CDC's claim that reducing alcohol intake lowers cancer risk. The Annenberg Public Policy Center survey found that 40% were unaware or misinformed about the link between alcohol consumption and cancer.
Millions of Americans hurt by others’ drinking, drug use: study
A new study found that nearly 160 million Americans have been harmed by someone else's substance use, with 113 million experiencing harm from alcohol use and 46 million from other drugs. The survey also revealed significant overlap between the two groups, highlighting a major public health issue.
Differences in the effectiveness of nonalcoholic beverage provision in reducing alcohol consumption depending on the degree of problem drinking
Providing nonalcoholic beverages significantly reduces alcohol consumption in individuals with moderate to severe drinking problems, as indicated by AUDIT scores ≤7, 8-11, 12-14, and ≥15. However, this approach is not sufficient for those with more severe cases, highlighting the need for a combination of strategies.
Women more likely to choose wine with feminine labels
A recent study by Washington State University researchers found that women are more inclined to purchase wine with labels featuring feminine gender cues. The study's lead author noted that winemakers may want to pay attention to the perceptions of this understudied group, which represents 59% of U.S. wine consumers.
Half of heavier drinkers say calorie labels on alcohol would lead to a change in their drinking habits
A new study by UCL researchers found that 54% of heavier drinkers would make changes to their drinking if calorie labels were introduced. Hazardous drinkers were more likely to choose lower-calorie drinks and consume fewer drinks.
Century-old experiment secures beer and whiskey’s future
A century-old experiment has pinpointed the genes behind barley's adaptability, enabling its continued survival in rapidly changing environments. Researchers identified key genes that enable flowering at optimal times, allowing crops to thrive despite increased temperatures and droughts.