Busch NA Nutrition Facts: A Closer Look
At 60 calories per 12-ounce serving, Busch NA is a refreshingly light option in the non-alcoholic beverage category. This is considerably less than most full-strength beers, which typically contain around 150 calories or more for the same serving size. The low calorie count is primarily due to the minimal alcohol content, which sits at less than 0.5% ABV. Since alcohol contributes a substantial number of calories (7 calories per gram), removing most of it drastically reduces the final caloric load.
Breaking Down the Macronutrients
Beyond just calories, a complete nutritional picture reveals where that energy comes from. For a single 12 fl. oz. can of Busch NA, the macronutrient breakdown is straightforward:
- Total Carbohydrates: 12.9g
- Total Sugars: Not specified as a separate value, but noted as 0g added sugars
- Protein: 0.6g
- Fat: 0g
This breakdown shows that the vast majority of the calories in a Busch NA come from carbohydrates. These carbs are primarily from the malt and cereal grains used during the brewing process, and unlike many sodas or fruit juices, there is no added sugar to inflate the calorie count.
Comparison to Other Beverages
To put the 60-calorie count into perspective, here is a comparison with other popular beverages. This table highlights how Busch NA fits into the larger landscape of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
| Beverage (12 oz) | Calories | Carbohydrates (g) | Protein (g) | Sugar (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Busch NA | 60 | 12.9 | 0.6 | 0 |
| Coors Edge NA | 41 | 8 | Not specified | 4 |
| Heineken 0.0 | 69 | 16 | Not specified | 1.3 |
| Average Alcoholic Beer | ~153 | ~13 | ~2 | Not specified |
| Cola | ~140 | ~38 | 0 | ~38 |
What Accounts for the Calories in Non-Alcoholic Beer?
If non-alcoholic beer has virtually no alcohol, where do the calories come from? The answer lies in the base ingredients and the brewing process. Beer, whether alcoholic or not, starts with malted barley and cereal grains. These ingredients contain starches that are converted into fermentable sugars during the mashing process. In traditional beer, yeast consumes these sugars and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide.
For non-alcoholic beers like Busch NA, the brewing process is altered to minimize alcohol production. One method involves removing the alcohol after fermentation through a low-temperature process to retain the flavor. In either case, some unfermented sugars and carbohydrates from the grains remain in the finished product. These residual carbohydrates are the primary source of the 60 calories you find in a Busch NA. A key distinction is that these are not added sugars; they are the natural product of the brewing process, unlike in many soft drinks where sugar is added separately.
Health Considerations for Non-Alcoholic Beer
Choosing non-alcoholic beer can offer several health benefits, particularly when compared to its alcoholic counterpart. Since it's low in alcohol, it helps with hydration and doesn't carry the diuretic effect of regular beer. Many non-alcoholic beers, including Busch NA, also provide some B vitamins, such as riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and folate, which are beneficial for energy metabolism. While not a health drink, it offers a more mindful alternative to sugary sodas or high-calorie alcoholic drinks.
For those on low-carb diets, the 12.9g of carbs in Busch NA is an important consideration. While it's lower in calories than regular beer, the carbohydrate count is still relatively high compared to specialty low-carb NA options. Individuals on a strict ketogenic diet, for example, would need to factor this into their daily intake. Always reading the nutritional label is the best way to ensure the beverage aligns with your dietary goals. The brewing method of Busch NA allows it to maintain a full-bodied, malty flavor that many people enjoy, providing a satisfying experience without the effects of alcohol.
The Final Sip: A Conclusion
For those seeking a beverage that delivers a classic beer taste with minimal calories and no added sugars, the Busch non alcoholic drink is a reliable choice. Each 12-ounce can contains just 60 calories, with the majority of the caloric content derived from carbohydrates from the brewing grains. By containing less than 0.5% ABV, it serves as a healthier alternative to full-strength beers and many sugary soft drinks. When considering any non-alcoholic option, it's always wise to review the specific nutritional details to ensure it fits your personal health and dietary needs.
It is easy to find the exact nutritional information for Busch NA on the official product website, which can be found here: Busch NA Nutrition Facts.
