Decoding the Sweetness: Is There a Lot of Sugar in Ginger Beer?

November 3, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2016 study, commercial ginger beer often contains a high amount of sugar, sometimes even more than regular cola. Given this, is there a lot of sugar in ginger beer? The answer is not always straightforward, as the sugar content varies dramatically between brands, with some containing significantly more than others.

Quick Summary

Many commercial ginger beers contain surprising amounts of added sugar, frequently surpassing standard cola. The actual quantity varies greatly by brand and production method, making low-sugar and homemade options healthier alternatives.

Key Points

High Sugar Content: Many commercial ginger beers contain surprisingly high amounts of sugar, often comparable to or exceeding popular sodas like cola.
Brand Variations: The sugar level in ginger beer is highly brand-dependent, with some offering diet or low-sugar versions that use alternative sweeteners.
Homemade Advantage: Brewing ginger beer at home allows you to control the sugar content, as the fermentation process naturally reduces sweetness over time.
Fermentation and Health: Traditionally fermented ginger beer may contain probiotics and offer potential health benefits from real ginger, such as anti-inflammatory properties.
Label Literacy: It is crucial for consumers to read nutritional labels carefully, as the perception of ginger beer as a 'healthier' option can be misleading.

The Surprising Truth About Commercial Ginger Beer

Many consumers perceive ginger beer as a spicier, more natural alternative to traditional soda, believing it to be a healthier choice. However, the reality, particularly with many commercially produced varieties, is that it is often loaded with sugar. Research has shown that some brands contain startlingly high amounts of sugar, with some surpassing the content of popular colas on a per-can basis. For example, one brand was found to contain nearly 16 grams of sugar per 100ml, equating to 52 grams in a standard 330ml serving. The high sugar content is a product of modern manufacturing, where added sugars like high-fructose corn syrup are used to achieve a consistent taste profile and sweetness. This starkly contrasts with traditionally brewed ginger beer, where fermentation can reduce the final sugar level.

How Brands Compare on Sugar Content

Not all ginger beers are created equal. The sugar content can differ significantly based on the manufacturer's recipe and whether it is a regular or diet version. It is crucial to read the nutritional labels to make an informed choice. Brands with higher sugar often rely on cane sugar or high-fructose corn syrup for sweetness, while diet versions use artificial sweeteners.

The Role of Fermentation in Homemade Ginger Beer

For those concerned about high sugar levels, making ginger beer at home offers a way to control the sweetness. Traditional ginger beer relies on fermentation, where yeast consumes the added sugar. This process is similar to how bread or alcoholic beverages are made, and it naturally reduces the sugar content over time. The longer the brew ferments, the more sugar the yeast metabolizes, resulting in a drier, less sweet beverage. This method not only allows for a lower sugar drink but can also introduce beneficial probiotics through the natural fermentation process.

Ginger Beer vs. Other Popular Sodas: A Comparison

To put the sugar content of ginger beer into perspective, it helps to compare it with other common fizzy drinks. As noted in the introduction, some ginger beers have been found to contain more sugar than regular cola. The following table compares the typical sugar content of several popular beverages. The values can vary by brand and country, but they illustrate the general trend. The data shows that while some ginger ales are lower in sugar, many traditional ginger beers are among the highest.


Beverage	Typical Sugar Content (per 12 fl oz / 355 mL)	Notes
Commercial Ginger Beer	~35–47g	Content varies widely by brand. Some can be higher.
Regular Cola	~35–41g	Often slightly less sugar than some commercial ginger beers.
Ginger Ale	~23–32g	Generally, the lower sugar option of the two ginger-flavored drinks, though it may contain less real ginger.
Diet Ginger Beer / Ale	0–5g	Use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar.
Bottled Water	0g	Sugar-free baseline for comparison.

How to Enjoy Ginger Beer with Less Sugar

For those who love the spicy flavor but want to reduce their sugar intake, several strategies can help:

Choose diet or low-sugar versions: Many brands, like Bundaberg, offer diet or 'light' versions with significantly less sugar.
Make it at home: Brewing your own ginger beer from scratch gives you complete control over the amount of sugar added. The fermentation process naturally consumes some of the sugar, and the longer you ferment, the less sweet it becomes.
Dilute with sparkling water: If you buy a sugary commercial version, cut its sweetness by mixing it with plain or sparkling water. This also reduces the overall calories per serving.
Use as a mixer: When used in cocktails like a Moscow Mule, you can opt for a low-sugar brand and control the additional sugar from other ingredients.
Enjoy in moderation: Like any treat, high-sugar ginger beer is best enjoyed occasionally rather than as a daily beverage.

Conclusion

While the crisp, spicy flavor of ginger beer is refreshing, the high sugar content of many commercial varieties is a significant drawback for health-conscious consumers. Studies have repeatedly shown that some ginger beers contain more sugar than popular sodas. This does not mean ginger beer must be avoided entirely, but it requires mindful consumption. By reading labels, choosing low-sugar or diet options, or even brewing your own, you can still enjoy the robust flavor without the excessive sugar intake. The key lies in understanding the difference between traditionally fermented versions and mass-produced drinks sweetened with large amounts of added sugar. For more information on reducing sugary drink consumption, visit Rethink Sugary Drink.

Disclaimer: The sugar content can vary by region and brand formulation. Always check the nutritional label on the product you purchase.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, on average, ginger beer contains more sugar than ginger ale. A 2016 study found that average ginger beer had 38.5g of sugar per can, while ginger ale contained 22.9g.

Most commercial ginger beers are not traditionally fermented but are produced using high quantities of added sugars, such as cane sugar or high-fructose corn syrup, to achieve a consistent and sweet flavor profile.

Yes, many brands offer low-sugar or diet versions of ginger beer that use artificial sweeteners to reduce or eliminate added sugar. Always check the nutrition label for specific sugar content.

Homemade ginger beer can contain less sugar because the yeast used in fermentation consumes the sugar over time. The longer the fermentation, the less sugar remains in the final product.

Yes, different types of sugar can be used, with varying effects on the final flavor and fermentation. For example, some recipes use brown sugar, while others use cane sugar or molasses.

Yes, you can opt for diet varieties, brew your own low-sugar version, or dilute a regular commercial ginger beer with sparkling water to reduce the sweetness and overall sugar intake.

While real ginger has potential health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties, the high sugar content in many commercial ginger beers often outweighs these benefits, especially when consumed in large quantities.