The difference between regular and pink gin
To understand why Gordon's pink gin is not suitable for a ketogenic diet, one must first differentiate between a standard distilled gin and its flavored counterpart. A classic, unflavored gin is a pure spirit, typically made from a neutral grain alcohol distilled with juniper berries and other botanicals. This process results in a beverage with zero carbohydrates and zero sugar. The ketogenic diet, which relies on extremely low carb intake to force the body into a state of ketosis, allows for pure, unflavored spirits in moderation for this reason.
Gordon's pink gin, however, deviates from this standard formula by infusing the spirit with natural fruit flavors, including raspberries, strawberries, and redcurrant. This infusion process, while creating the characteristic color and sweet taste, introduces natural sugars from the fruit into the finished product. These added sugars are a source of carbohydrates and calories that can quickly add up, easily exceeding a keto dieter's strict daily carb limit and knocking the body out of ketosis. Some product variations, like canned pink gin and tonic, are particularly high in sugar and carbs.
Why flavoured gin can be a keto trap
The most significant factor making flavored gins, including Gordon's pink gin, a poor choice for keto is the presence of sugar. The keto diet aims for a very low carbohydrate intake (typically 20–50 grams per day) to maintain ketosis. Even a single serving of a sugary drink can contain enough carbs to use up a substantial portion of this daily allowance. When the liver processes alcohol, it prioritizes removing the alcohol from the body over burning fat for fuel, a process that can be further hindered by the addition of sugary mixers.
Furthermore, the flavor intensity in a pink gin is not achieved through distillation alone, but through maceration or infusion, which extracts the sugars along with the fruit essence. The manufacturer intentionally creates a sweeter, more approachable spirit that appeals to those who prefer less of the traditional, juniper-forward gin taste. This sweetness, however, is a direct red flag for anyone following a strict low-carb eating plan.
Keto-friendly alternatives for gin lovers
For those who enjoy gin but want to stay in ketosis, several alternatives can satisfy a similar craving without the added carbs. The key is to start with a standard, unflavored, and zero-carb gin and choose your mixers wisely.
Keto-friendly gin and mixer combinations
- Classic Gin and Soda: A crisp and refreshing choice. Use any unflavored gin and mix it with plain soda water or a sugar-free sparkling water. Add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice for extra flavor without the carbs.
- Gin with Diet Tonic: Many brands now offer diet or 'slimline' tonic waters that are sweetened with non-nutritive sweeteners and contain zero sugar. While artificial sweeteners are a personal choice for keto dieters, they won't add carbs. Garnish with a lemon or lime wedge.
- Berried Gin (DIY Keto): For those who miss the fruity flavor of pink gin, you can create your own keto-friendly version. Infuse a bottle of standard gin with fresh raspberries and strawberries. The key is to strain the fruit after a short infusion period to capture the flavor without the sugar. Alternatively, use a few drops of a zero-carb fruit flavor essence.
- Flavored Seltzers: Mix an unflavored gin with a keto-friendly flavored seltzer, such as La Croix or Bubly, for a refreshing, bubbly drink with no added sugar.
A comparison of gin options on a keto diet
| Feature | Gordon's Pink Gin | Standard London Dry Gin | DIY Keto Pink Gin (infused) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | Contains added sugars from fruit infusion | Zero carbs | Very low, depending on infusion method |
| Keto-Friendliness | Not keto-friendly due to added sugar | Very keto-friendly (pure spirit) | Keto-friendly (avoids added sugar) |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet, fruity, with raspberry and strawberry notes | Classic, juniper-forward, dry taste | Fresh fruit flavor, can be customized |
| Mixer Pairing | Typically mixed with high-sugar tonic or lemonade | Pairs well with keto mixers like soda water or diet tonic | Use with soda water or diet tonic for best keto results |
| Ingredient Control | Fixed recipe with added sugar | Standardized, no added sugar | Full control over fruit type and sugar content |
The takeaway on Gordon's pink gin
In summary, while the core spirit of gin is keto-compliant, Gordon's pink gin is not. The addition of fruit juices for flavor and color introduces sugars that make it unsuitable for a strict ketogenic diet. To enjoy a gin drink without disrupting ketosis, your best strategy is to opt for a traditional, unflavored gin and pair it with zero-carb mixers like diet tonic or soda water. This approach allows you to control the sugar content and avoid the hidden carbohydrates that are the biggest obstacle to enjoying alcohol on a low-carb eating plan.
Sources
Ketokitchenlytham.co.uk. Drinking Alcohol on the Keto Diet: What You Need to Know. February 07 2025. Accessed October 09, 2025. theskinnyfoodco. What Alcohol Can You Drink On Keto?. Accessed October 09, 2025. Cookunity.com. What Alcohol Can You Drink On Keto? Go Keto-Friendly Booze. April 14 2023. Accessed October 09, 2025.
