Alcoholics And Ginger Beer: Is It Safe To Drink?

Ginger beer is a sweetened carbonated beverage with a strong ginger flavour and a spicy kick. It is often used as a mixer in cocktails such as the Moscow Mule or Dark and Stormy. Despite its name, most commercially produced ginger beer is non-alcoholic. However, traditionally, ginger beer was fermented and brewed with sugar, ginger, water and sometimes lemon, resulting in an alcoholic drink with around 11% alcohol. Today, some ginger beers contain less than 0.5% alcohol, while others can contain up to 5% ABV. So, while most ginger beers are non-alcoholic, there are some varieties that do contain alcohol, which may not be suitable for people who are avoiding alcohol, including recovering alcoholics.

Ginger beer's alcohol content

Ginger beer is a sweetened carbonated beverage with a strong ginger flavour and a spicy kick. The drink originated in England and was traditionally made by fermenting and brewing sugar, ginger, water, and sometimes lemon with a starter culture called the ginger beer plant. This process would result in a drink with around 11% alcohol content, which is why it earned the name "beer".

However, in modern times, ginger beer is typically not fermented but carbonated, making it a soft drink. While some ginger beers still contain less than 0.5% alcohol, most commercially produced ginger beers are non-alcoholic. This change came about due to prohibition laws, which considered any beverage below 0.5% ABV a soft drink. This law still holds true today, and manufacturers of ginger beer must ensure their products comply with these regulations to avoid legal issues and negative publicity.

The alcohol content of ginger beer can vary depending on the brand and the method of production. Some brands, like Sprecher Griffin Mixer Ginger Beer, produce non-alcoholic versions, while others may have trace amounts of alcohol. It's important to check the label if you are concerned about alcohol content.

The flavour of ginger beer also makes it a versatile mixer for cocktails or a standalone drink. It can be used in classic cocktails like the Moscow Mule or Dark and Stormy, or even in spirit-free drinks. Ginger beer's strong flavour stands out in any cocktail, and its carbonation adds a refreshing effervescence.

Ginger beer's history

Ginger beer originated in England in the mid-1700s, though some sources place its creation in the mid-1800s. It was first created in Yorkshire, England, during the colonial spice trade. The drink was made by fermenting and brewing ginger, sugar, water, and sometimes lemon and/or cream of tartar. The mixture was left to sit and ferment until it became bubbly and slightly alcoholic, then it was strained, and a portion of the old batch was used to make the new one.

The name "ginger beer" is somewhat misleading, as the drink was never actually a beer in the traditional sense. Instead, the production methods were similar to those used for brewing beer. The fermentation process involved a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (a SCOBY) known as the "ginger beer plant." This culture of microorganisms ferments the sugar water flavoured with ginger, producing carbon dioxide and low levels of alcohol as waste products.

Before the advent of modern soft drinks, ginger beer was a popular drink in Britain and North America from the 18th century until Prohibition. It provided a safer alternative to often-contaminated water and was exported worldwide in strong earthenware bottles. However, its popularity waned during Prohibition, as people turned to other soft drinks like ginger ale.

Today, most commercial ginger beers are non-alcoholic or contain less than 0.5% alcohol, though some traditional recipes can have up to 11% alcohol content.

Ginger beer cocktails

Ginger beer is a versatile mixer that can be used in a wide variety of cocktails. Here are some ideas for ginger beer cocktails:

Moscow Mule

Fresh lime juice, vodka, and spicy ginger beer are the hallmarks of an iconic Moscow Mule. This cocktail is typically served in a copper mug with ice and garnished with a lime wedge.

Dark 'n Stormy

Another classic cocktail, the Dark 'n Stormy, features dark rum floating on top of the lighter ginger beer, resembling a storm cloud. It can be served in a tumbler or highball glass.

Margarita

A unique twist on the traditional margarita, this cocktail combines ginger beer with tequila, lime juice, simple syrup, and salt for the rim. It's a simple yet delicious combination that showcases the tequila well.

Irish Buck

Light yet oaky, Irish whiskey joins tart lemon juice, honey, and spicy ginger beer in this refreshing, fizzy cocktail. It's a perfect choice for a summer day.

Tequila and Ginger Beer

This combination packs a punch! Simply mix tequila with ginger beer and add a squeeze of lime juice. For an extra kick, garnish with a chilli pepper.

Rum and Ginger Beer

Whether it's white rum, dark rum, or spiced rum, the rich taste of rum pairs well with the zingy flavour of ginger beer. Try combining dark rum, apple liqueur, cloudy apple juice, and lime, or get creative with other types of rum and mixers.

Whiskey and Ginger Beer

Add some spice to your whiskey by mixing it with ginger beer. For a fun variation, try a Fizzy Ginger Apple Whiskey, which includes apple cider and a cinnamon rim.

Gin and Ginger Beer

Gin and ginger may not be an obvious combination, but it can be surprisingly refreshing. Try a Breakfast at Tiffany's, which includes gin, lemon juice, jelly, and bitters, or get creative with other mixers like Aperol or Pimms.

Ginger beer vs ginger ale

Ginger beer and ginger ale are both fizzy ginger drinks, but they have distinct differences.

History

Ginger beer is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the 18th century, with historians finding advertisements for bottled iterations from the early 1800s. However, some sources claim that it may be much older. Ginger ale, on the other hand, has more recent origins. In 1866, Detroit-based pharmacist James Vernor created and began selling Vernor's Ginger Ale, making it one of the oldest soft drinks in America.

Ingredients and Flavour

Ginger beer has a more intense ginger flavour and is spicier than ginger ale, which is typically treated as a tame alternative to alcohol or soda. Ginger beer's robust flavour makes it enjoyable on its own or as a mixer in cocktails. Ginger ale, on the other hand, has a much more delicate flavour profile and is often used as a mixer in drinks like the Pimm's Cup or Presbyterian.

Carbonation and Alcohol Content

Traditional ginger beer was made effervescent through fermentation and contained alcohol, with some sources placing its alcohol content at around 11%. Modern ginger beers are typically carbonated and contain little to no alcohol, with some brands containing less than 0.5% alcohol due to trace amounts from the fermentation process. Ginger ale, on the other hand, is usually artificially carbonated and non-alcoholic.

Appearance

Ginger beer can be clear or cloudy depending on the filtering process and the manner in which it is brewed. Ginger ale, meanwhile, tends to be paler in colour.

Use Cases

Given their distinct flavour profiles, ginger beer and ginger ale are not always interchangeable in cocktails. Ginger beer is commonly used in cocktails like the Moscow Mule and Dark and Stormy, where its spiciness complements the other ingredients. Ginger ale, with its sweeter and more delicate flavour, is often used in drinks like the Whiskey Ginger, where it allows the spirit to shine.

Nausea Relief

If you're looking for a ginger drink to settle an upset stomach, ginger beer is generally a better option as it is more likely to use fresh ginger in the brewing process and is thus better suited to relieve nausea. Ginger ale tends to be more processed, and the syrup-boiling process can deteriorate the nutrients in fresh ginger.

Is ginger beer a cure for stomach aches?

Ginger beer has been used as a remedy for an upset stomach for thousands of years. It is known to help with digestion, bloating, and nausea due to its anti-inflammatory properties and active compounds called gingerols. However, it is important to note that not all ginger beers are created equal. To ensure maximum benefit, look for brands that use fresh or organic ginger root or extracts. Additionally, check the label for added sugar content, as high sugar content can have a negative effect on your health if consumed in large quantities.

Ginger beer is a fermented beverage with a more intense flavour and less carbonation than ginger ale. It is also slightly less carbonated, which can be beneficial for upset stomachs as doctors say carbonation in soda causes gas and can make stomach pains worse. Furthermore, the fermentation process of ginger beer encourages the growth of probiotics, which can aid the immune system, heart health, and digestion.

While ginger beer can be a great choice for those looking for a healthier alternative to alcoholic beverages, it is still a sugary drink and may not be suitable for everyone. If you are looking for natural ways to soothe an upset stomach, it is best to speak with a qualified healthcare professional.

Ginger beer is also not recommended for those suffering from diarrhoea. While ginger is known for its antidiarrheal properties, the fermentation process used to make ginger beer strips away many of these beneficial compounds. Therefore, fresh ginger tea or other forms of raw ginger are better options for treating diarrhoea.

Overall, ginger beer can be a helpful remedy for upset stomachs due to its anti-inflammatory properties and active compounds. However, it is important to choose a brand with high-quality ingredients and monitor your consumption to avoid negative effects from added sugars.

Frequently asked questions