Is There a Lot of Sodium in Beer?

November 15, 2025 •

3 min read

Most regular beers contain a negligible amount of sodium, typically falling between 10 and 20 milligrams per 12-ounce serving. For individuals monitoring their intake, this means the answer to the question, 'is there a lot of sodium in beer?' is almost always no.

Quick Summary

The average beer contains a very low sodium concentration, primarily derived from brewing water and malt, with amounts generally ranging from 10 to 20 mg per serving. Higher sodium levels are only found in specific specialty styles like Gose or when added for flavor in craft brewing.

Key Points

Minimal Content: Most beers contain a very low amount of sodium, typically 10–20 mg per 12-ounce serving, which is negligible for the average diet.
Natural Sources: The sodium in beer primarily comes from the natural mineral content of the brewing water and, to a lesser extent, the malt.
Flavor Influence: Brewers can adjust water's sodium levels to affect the beer's flavor and mouthfeel, with moderate amounts enhancing sweetness and higher amounts potentially causing a salty taste.
Specialty Exceptions: Certain craft beer styles, most notably Gose, are brewed with salt and have a significantly higher sodium content.
Minimal Differences: The sodium content in light beers is generally similar to or slightly lower than in regular and dark beers, but the difference is minimal.
Not a Primary Source: The snacks and foods often consumed with beer are a far greater source of sodium than the beverage itself.

What's the Average Sodium Content in Beer?

For most popular beers, the sodium content is minimal and not a cause for concern for the average person. A standard 12-ounce can or bottle contains around 10 to 20 milligrams of sodium, a truly negligible amount when compared to the daily recommended limit of 2,300 milligrams for most adults. For context, many processed foods and restaurant meals contribute far more to daily sodium intake than a single beer ever could.

Where Does the Sodium in Beer Come From?

Sodium isn't intentionally added to most beers; instead, it enters the final product through the natural brewing ingredients. The primary sources of sodium in beer are:

Brewing Water: The mineral content of the local water supply, known as the 'water profile,' is the most significant contributor. Some regional water sources have higher natural sodium levels than others. Brewers might also adjust the water's mineral content, which can introduce sodium, to achieve a specific flavor profile for certain beer styles.
Malted Grains: The grains used in brewing, such as barley, contain trace amounts of sodium that are carried into the wort during the mashing process.
Flavor Additives: A few specific beer styles and craft brews might have salt added intentionally to achieve a desired flavor effect. The most well-known example is the German Gose style, which is brewed with salt to produce a distinctively salty, sour character.

Sodium Content Comparison: Light vs. Dark vs. Craft

The sodium level can vary slightly across different types of beer, but the differences are generally minor. For those concerned about sodium, here is a general comparison:

Comparing Sodium Levels Across Beer Types


Beer Type	Typical Sodium Range (per 12 oz)	Notable Factors
Light Lagers	5–15 mg	Often have slightly less sodium due to a higher water-to-grain ratio and lighter composition. Example: Coors Light (approx. 10mg).
Regular Lagers/Ales	10–20 mg	Standard content, sourced primarily from brewing water.
Dark Beers (Stouts/Porters)	15–25 mg	Can have slightly higher levels from the mineral content of roasted malts, though still very low overall.
Craft Beers	5–150+ mg	Highly variable. Most craft beers are still low, but specialty styles like Gose contain added salt and significantly higher sodium.
Non-Alcoholic Beers	< 10 mg	Typically very low, with some brands listing zero sodium.

The Exception: Gose-Style Beers

If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, the one major exception to be aware of is the Gose beer style. This traditional German wheat beer is specifically brewed with salt, resulting in a noticeably salty and tangy flavor profile. The sodium content of a Gose can be significantly higher than other beers and should be checked on the label, if available.

How the Brewing Process Affects Sodium

The level of sodium in a finished beer is a reflection of the initial mineral composition of the water used, combined with any additives. Brewers must carefully consider their water's mineral profile because sodium influences the final taste and mouthfeel. Moderate levels of sodium (50–150 mg/L) can enhance the perception of malt sweetness and improve the beer's body, while excessive amounts can produce a harsh or salty taste. Since yeast does not accumulate sodium, the mineral content present in the water and grains directly affects the flavor.

The Takeaway for Low-Sodium Diets

For most people watching their sodium intake, standard beer is a safe choice. The minimal sodium content is unlikely to have a significant impact on your daily totals. The greater risk for high sodium intake is more often associated with the salty snacks and foods commonly paired with beer. If you are on a very strict low-sodium diet, or if you consume a large volume of beer, it may be prudent to check the nutritional information or opt for a light or non-alcoholic version.

In conclusion, while beer does contain a trace amount of sodium, it is not considered a high-sodium beverage. The source of this mineral is usually the natural water and malt used in brewing, not a large quantity of added salt. The only real exceptions are specific craft styles like Gose. So, for the vast majority of beers, the answer is a resounding no, there is not a lot of sodium in beer. For more detailed information on healthy drinking habits, visit the CDC's guidance on dietary guidelines and alcohol. CDC - Dietary Guidelines for Americans

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, standard beer is generally considered a good beverage choice for a low-sodium diet because its sodium content is minimal and contributes very little to your daily intake.

Non-alcoholic beers and most light lagers typically contain the lowest amounts of sodium, with some non-alcoholic options reporting zero sodium content.

While often slightly lower, the sodium difference between light and regular beer is generally insignificant. Both types are naturally low in sodium.

A salty taste in beer is usually due to an intentional addition of salt during the brewing process, a characteristic of certain specialty styles like Gose.

Beer's sodium content is very low compared to many other common drinks. For example, a 12-ounce serving of many soft drinks and sports drinks can have significantly more sodium.

Yes, the mineral profile of the brewing water, including its sodium content, influences the beer's flavor and mouthfeel. Brewers adjust it to achieve specific characteristics.

It is highly unlikely that the sodium in beer would cause a health problem, as the quantity is so low. However, excessive alcohol consumption itself has various other health risks that are unrelated to sodium.