NOW stocking NOA and Understanding the 0.5% ABV Rule in Non-Alcoholic Beverages

This information is courtesy of NOA: monsieur-cocktail.com/en

WHY LESS THAN 0.5% ABV STILL COUNTS AS ALCOHOL-FREE

Demystifying One of the Most Common Questions in the Zero-Proof World

If you’ve ever wondered, "How can something labeled 'alcohol-free' contain up to 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV)?" — you’re not alone. Let’s break it down.

🧪 WHERE TRACES OF ALCOHOL COME FROM

Alcohol, or ethanol, is a natural by-product of fermentation. As such, tiny amounts are found in everyday foods and drinks you might not expect:

• Vinegar, kombucha, pasteurized juice
• Chocolate, jams, cakes, and bread (especially sourdough!)
• Pickles, sauerkraut, kefir cheese
• Even sodas, sauces, and sweets with flavor extracts

That’s right — traces of alcohol (we’re talking about ~0.1 ml per serving) are part of many standard food items. It’s rarely a health concern and often doesn’t require labeling.

🩺 IS 0.5% SAFE?

✅ Yes — for most people. These trace levels are harmless for:

• Pregnant women
• Children
• Individuals choosing to abstain

🚫 EXCEPTION: If you must avoid all alcohol for medical or religious reasons, look specifically for 0.0% ABV and steer clear of fermented foods and processed goods with added flavourings.

⚖️ WHAT THE LAW SAYS

Legally, beverages under 0.5% ABV can be labeled “alcohol-free” in many countries. However, regulators recommend the use of “non-alcoholic” to avoid confusion. (Heads up: A legal revision on labeling was expected in late 2023.)

📦 LABELS DECODED

Let’s clarify what each label actually means:

🟢 <0.5% alc/vol

Made with botanical extracts or natural flavours based in ethanol. Still legally “alcohol-free,” but contains trace amounts.

🔵 0.0% alc/vol

Crafted using flavour bases like glycerine or propylene glycol to guarantee zero alcohol.

Note: No real fruit or juice — these often naturally ferment and would break the 0.0% barrier.

🟡 No ABV Label

If there's no percentage listed, you can assume it's under 0.5% ABV, but not zero — otherwise it would proudly state 0.0%.

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We’re excited to announce we are now carrying the entire NOA line — including their premium non-alcoholic spirits, syrups, ready-to-drink cocktails (RTDs), and more.

👉 Explore the full range on our website now and elevate your zero-proof game.

🧰 BARJUS TAKEAWAY

As the non-alcoholic category continues to grow, transparency and knowledge are key. Being able to explain the difference between 0.0% and <0.5% to your guests or customers builds trust and credibility. Keep this cheat sheet handy — your future self will thank you.