Alcohol Awareness Month: Advancing Responsibility in the Beer Industry
by Brian Crawford
President and CEO
April marks Alcohol Awareness Month, a time to reinforce and further the critical work our industry does to promote responsible drinking and support informed choices. The beer industry plays a vital role in fostering a culture of moderation, enhancing consumer awareness and driving progress through transparent practices and innovative solutions.
Championing Responsible Drinking
For decades, brewers and our wholesale partners have invested billions of dollars in championing programs to reduce underage drinking, prevent impaired driving, encourage moderation and offer resources to educate consumers about responsible drinking behaviors. These efforts have provided millions of safe rides home and helped reduce U.S. underage drinking levels to historic lows. More about those initiatives can be found on the Beer Institute’s website.
At the same time, through collaborative efforts and partnerships, such as WRAP’s SoberRide program, TEAM Coalition or TIPS training, the beer industry consistently advocates for programs that foster safer communities and reduce harmful consumption.
Innovating Low-and-No-Alcohol Options
In response to evolving consumer preferences, brewers have invested significantly to expand their offerings to include innovative low-alcohol and no-alcohol options. These alternatives cater to individuals seeking flavorful experiences without the effects of alcohol. Whether it’s a refreshing light beer designed for moderation or a non-alcohol lager, these products allow consumers to continue to enjoy beer occasions without the buzz.
Setting Standards for Transparency
Through the Brewers’ Voluntary Disclosure Initiative (VDI), our industry set a new standard in nutritional transparency. More than 95% of the beer volume sold by BI members participating in VDI provides nutritional information and alcohol serving facts. This meaningful information empowers consumers to make informed decisions about their beverage intake. I’m proud that beer is leading the alcohol beverage industry in quality and transparency.
Encouraging Thoughtful, Moderate Consumption
Our involvement in these efforts is grounded in four core drinking principles, which, when followed, help preserve the ability we enjoy each day to enjoy a cold, refreshing beer. Here are the Beer Institute’s core responsibility principles:
- Consume alcohol beverages in moderation.
- Understand and keep track of how much alcohol you are consuming.
- Don’t consume alcohol on an empty stomach.
- Discuss any concerns about alcohol beverage consumption with your healthcare provider.
As we recognize Alcohol Awareness Month, let’s remember that promoting responsible consumption is a shared effort. Whether you’re a consumer, business leader or industry partner, everyone has a role to play in promoting awareness, moderation and safe choices. Together, we can drive positive changes and contribute to a culture that values responsibility.
