Stella Beer: Healthy Or Not?

Stella Artois is a popular beer with a rich heritage that can be traced back to the Belgian city of Leuven. It is the official beer of Wimbledon, Cannes, and several other top events. However, the question of how healthy it is remains a concern for consumers. With 127 calories per bottle, it is not the lightest option available, and some drinkers have expressed concerns about its taste and the possibility of it going skunky due to its packaging. Nevertheless, Stella Artois has won awards for its flavour, and some drinkers appreciate its accessibility and pleasant taste.

Calories: 127 calories per 330ml bottle

When it comes to calories, a 330ml bottle of Stella Artois beer contains 127 calories. This is considered relatively low compared to other popular brands of beer. For example, a standard bottle of beer typically has more calories, as evidenced by a comparable lager, which has 89 calories per bottle.

The calorie count in Stella Artois beer is worth considering when making informed dietary choices. While it's important to note that calories are just one aspect of nutrition, they play a significant role in our overall energy intake and can impact our health when consumed in excess.

The number of calories in a beer can vary depending on various factors, including the brand, style, and serving size. Different types of beers, such as lagers, pilsners, and ales, can have different calorie contents. Additionally, the serving size can significantly influence the calorie intake. A larger serving size will naturally contribute more calories, while a smaller serving may be a better option for those watching their calorie intake.

It's worth noting that the calorie content of beer can also be influenced by the ingredients used and the brewing process. Some beers may have higher calorie counts due to the use of specific grains, sugars, or other additives. Additionally, the fermentation process and the presence of alcohol can contribute to the overall calorie content.

While Stella Artois beer has a relatively lower calorie count compared to some other beers, it's important to consider your overall dietary needs and preferences when making choices.

Taste: sweet, bitter, and dry

Stella Artois is a European Pale Lager with a well-balanced malt sweetness, a crisp hop bitterness, and a soft dry finish. It has a mild, unassuming bitterness with a pleasant hint of lemon citrus. The finish is quite dry, without the cloying notes that often accompany a mass-produced Euro lager.

One reviewer describes the taste as having "bready malt with a touch of citrus...orange and lemon. Nice level of sweetness there. A bit of spiciness on the backend with lingering sweet malts as it finishes dry with grassiness and slight lemon zest hoppy bitterness." Another reviewer notes that Stella is a "crisp, sweet beer."

The taste of Stella Artois has been described as "benign and uninspiring," similar to other mass-produced beers. Some people have reported that Stella Artois tastes "skunky," which may be due to the beer being packaged in green or clear bottles that allow UV light to cause the beer to become light-struck and spoil. However, others have disagreed, stating that they have never experienced this issue with Stella Artois.

Health: no sodium, fat, or protein

Stella Artois is a European Pale Lager with a wonderful floral aroma, a well-balanced malt sweetness, crisp hop bitterness, and a soft, dry finish. It pairs well with food and friends. Notably, it won the 2019 World Beer Award for World's Best International Lager.

While it is a good-tasting beer, is it healthy? One source mentions that it has 127 calories per bottle, while another source mentions 143.2 calories per 330 mL bottle. However, it is important to note that the number of calories in Stella Artois may vary slightly due to the natural brewing process.

Interestingly, when compared to Skinny Lager, Stella Artois was found to have 30% more calories and 65% more carbs. This suggests that Skinny Lager may be a healthier alternative in terms of calorie and carbohydrate content.

Now, let's focus on the aspect of "Health: no sodium, fat, or protein." When examining the nutritional facts of Stella Artois, it becomes evident that a 330 mL bottle contains zero grams of sodium, fat, and protein. This information is also presented as a percentage of daily values, indicating that, for an average person consuming a 2,000-calorie diet, a bottle of Stella Artois contributes none of these specific nutrients.

The absence of sodium, fat, and protein in Stella Artois may be beneficial for individuals watching their intake of these specific components. For those on a low-sodium diet or aiming to reduce their fat or protein consumption, Stella Artois could be considered a beverage option that aligns with those dietary goals. However, it is crucial to remember that beer, including Stella Artois, typically contains carbohydrates and calories, which are essential to consider when evaluating overall health and nutritional content.

Pairing: good with food and friends

Stella Artois is a versatile beer that pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a perfect choice when enjoying a meal with friends and family. Its well-balanced malt sweetness, crisp hop bitterness, and floral aroma complement a range of cuisines and enhance the dining experience.

When it comes to food pairing, Stella Artois is a great match for dishes like lobster, salad, and chocolate. Its mild malt and light hops accentuate the richness of lamb and shellfish without overwhelming the balance of flavors. The bitterness of Stella Artois also helps to cut through cream sauces in pasta, creating a delightful contrast. For cheese lovers, Stella Artois is a fantastic choice, as it contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of semi-soft cheeses such as Havarti, Morbier, and artisanal varieties.

If you're looking for a refreshing beverage to accompany your fried foods, Stella Artois is an excellent option. Its crispness and mild flavor profile make it a perfect palate cleanser between bites of salty, crispy delights. Whether you're indulging in French fries, frites, or other fried treats, Stella Artois will keep your taste buds tantalized.

In Belgium, where Stella Artois originates, beer is featured at nearly every course, including dessert. A unique pairing to explore is Stella Artois with dark chocolate. This non-traditional combination has a celebrated history in Belgium and is sure to surprise and delight your palate. For a truly Belgian experience, indulge in some chocolate-infused recipes or a rich chocolate dessert alongside a chilled glass of Stella Artois.

So, the next time you're gathering with friends and family for a meal, consider reaching for a Stella Artois. Its versatility, balanced flavor profile, and ability to enhance a variety of dishes make it a perfect pairing for any occasion. Whether you're enjoying a casual get-together or a gourmet meal, Stella Artois is a beer that will surely please everyone at the table.

Price: considered expensive for the quality

Stella Artois is a premium European pale lager with a floral aroma, a well-balanced malt sweetness, crisp hop bitterness, and a soft, dry finish. It is considered a good beer for pairing with food and friends. Despite its positive qualities, some consumers find Stella Artois to be expensive for the quality offered.

The price of Stella Artois can vary depending on the retailer and the quantity purchased. For example, at Walmart, a 6-pack of 11.2 FL OZ bottles (5% ABV) is priced at $9.27, while an 18-pack of the same bottles is priced at $23.73. This works out to around 10-12 cents per fluid ounce, which some drinkers may consider expensive, especially when compared to other mass-produced lagers or beers in the same category.

One factor that can influence the price of Stella Artois is the location and type of retailer. For instance, the price may vary between supermarkets, liquor stores, and convenience stores, with some locations offering more competitive pricing than others. Additionally, the format, such as bottles or cans, and the pack size can also impact the price per unit.

In terms of quality, Stella Artois is known for its consistent taste and smooth finish. It has a pleasant hint of lemon citrus and a mild bitterness, without the overpowering skunkiness sometimes found in mass-produced lagers. However, some drinkers may find the taste underwhelming or not worth the price, especially when compared to craft beers or other premium lager options.

While Stella Artois has won awards, such as the 2019 World Beer Award for World's Best International Lager, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and perceived value for money when evaluating the price relative to the quality. Some drinkers may be willing to pay a premium for the brand, reputation, or drinking experience associated with Stella Artois, while others may opt for more affordable alternatives that offer similar or better taste profiles at a lower cost.

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