Is Guinness Non-Alcoholic Actually Non-Alcoholic?

January 11, 2026 •

2 min read

According to UK guidance, beverages labelled as 'alcohol-free' can contain up to 0.05% ABV, meaning even Guinness non-alcoholic, labelled as 0.0, may contain a negligible trace of alcohol. For practical purposes, it is essentially alcohol-free for the vast majority of consumers.

Quick Summary

This article details Guinness 0.0's brewing process, explaining how a cold filtration system removes most alcohol. It clarifies the differences in labeling and trace alcohol content across different countries.

Key Points

Trace Alcohol: Due to its brewing process, Guinness 0.0 contains a very small amount of alcohol, typically less than 0.5% ABV, and is not 100% alcohol-free.
Cold Filtration: Guinness removes the alcohol using a gentle cold filtration method after brewing to preserve the original beer's flavor profile.
Labeling Varies: Depending on the region, Guinness 0.0 is labeled either '0.0%' or 'non-alcoholic' (<0.5% ABV), but the liquid inside is the same.
Negligible Effects: The alcohol content is so low that it won't cause intoxication, similar to the trace alcohol found in everyday foods like ripe bananas.
Not for Everyone: Individuals in alcohol recovery and pregnant women should be cautious, as even trace amounts can be a concern, and consulting a doctor is recommended.
Same Signature Taste: The cold filtration process and the presence of the nitrogen widget allow Guinness 0.0 to replicate the smooth, creamy mouthfeel and taste of regular Guinness.

The Brewing Process: A Cold Filtration Approach

Guinness 0.0 is brewed similarly to its traditional counterpart using water, barley, hops, and yeast to develop characteristic stout flavors. The alcohol is then removed using a bespoke cold filtration process that preserves the beer's flavor profile and character. This method was perfected over four years by brewers to ensure the final product retains the smooth taste and dark ruby color of classic Guinness.

The Difference Between '0.0%' and 'Non-Alcoholic'

Legal definitions for 'non-alcoholic' and 'alcohol-free' vary by region.

United States vs. Europe

In the U.S., 'non-alcoholic' means less than 0.5% ABV. Guinness 0.0 is sold as 'non-alcoholic' with less than 0.5% ABV on the label due to regulations. In Europe and similar regions, the '0.0%' label is permitted, indicating an ABV below a threshold like 0.05%. The liquid is the same product brewed in Dublin, regardless of the label. Both labels mean trace alcohol amounts that are legally and physiologically insignificant for most people.

Trace Alcohol in Everyday Items

Trace alcohol levels are found in many common foods:

Ripe Bananas: Can contain up to 0.5% ABV.
Bread: Contains trace alcohol from fermentation.
Fruit Juice: Can also contain trace alcohol.

These examples show that low levels of naturally occurring alcohol are common, and the amount in Guinness 0.0 has a negligible impact on blood alcohol level.

Comparison Table: Guinness 0.0 vs. Classic Guinness Draught


Feature	Guinness 0.0	Classic Guinness Draught
Alcohol by Volume (ABV)	<0.5% in US, 0.0% in EU (Trace amounts)	4.2%
Calories (per 14oz can)	~71 calories	~154 calories
Taste Profile	Rich roasted barley, coffee, chocolate notes. Remarkably similar to original due to cold filtration.	Roasted malt, bitter hops, slightly sweet finish.
Mouthfeel	Smooth, creamy, and silky due to nitro widget.	Rich, creamy, and full-bodied.
Widget	Yes, contains a nitrogen widget for the signature pour and creamy head.	Yes, contains a nitrogen widget.
Brewing Time	~10 days (including additional cold filtration and quality control).	~9 days.

Who Should Be Cautious?

Individuals in alcohol recovery should be cautious as the taste and experience can be a trigger, and many experts advise avoiding non-alcoholic beverages that mimic alcohol. Pregnant women are advised to avoid alcohol entirely and should consult a doctor before consuming any beverage with trace alcohol. Further information on responsible drinking is available from authoritative sources like Drinkaware.

Conclusion: A Matter of Semantics and Practicality

Is Guinness non-alcoholic actually non-alcoholic? Practically, yes. The trace ethanol amounts in Guinness 0.0 are negligible and won't cause intoxication. Scientifically and regulatorily, it is not 100% alcohol-free, which is important for sensitive groups like those in recovery and pregnant women. The cold filtration process delivers the iconic Guinness taste without the intoxicating effects. Labels like '0.0%' or '<0.5%' reflect regional laws, not a different product. For most consumers, it is an excellent non-alcoholic option.

Guinness 0.0 is a fantastic option for those seeking a non-alcoholic stout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it contains a trace amount of alcohol. Legally, beverages labeled non-alcoholic in the U.S. can have up to 0.5% ABV, and Guinness 0.0 fits within this category. In Europe, where it's labeled 0.0%, it still contains a very small, negligible amount of ethanol.

No, you cannot get drunk from drinking Guinness 0.0. The alcohol content is so minimal that it would be physically impossible to consume enough to become intoxicated.

The alcohol is removed through a special cold filtration method after the beer has been brewed. This process is designed to protect the flavor and character of the stout.

Most addiction treatment professionals advise against it. The smell and taste can be a trigger for relapse, and they recommend avoiding non-alcoholic beers and similar alternatives entirely.

Guinness 0.0 is highly praised for tasting remarkably similar to regular Guinness. The cold filtration process is successful in preserving the iconic roasted, chocolate, and coffee notes.

Yes, the Guinness 0.0 brewing process, like all modern Guinness draught products, does not use isinglass (a fish product) for filtration, making it vegan-friendly.

The difference is due to regional labeling regulations. The product itself is identical regardless of the label. The '0.0%' is used in areas like Europe, while 'non-alcoholic' (less than 0.5% ABV) is used in the U.S..