Understanding the 'Blackout in a Can'
Four Loko has a reputation for high alcohol content. Due to the large amount of alcohol in a single can, it was often referred to as a "blackout in a can". While the original recipe contained stimulants and was banned, modern Four Loko still has a significant alcohol content, ranging from 6% to 14% ABV. A typical can is 23.5 ounces, allowing for rapid consumption of a large volume of alcohol, leading to quick and extreme intoxication.
The Standard Drink Calculation
To understand the equivalent of drinking a 4 Loko, it's essential to know what constitutes a "standard drink" in the U.S. A standard drink contains 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol, found in:
- 12 ounces of 5% ABV beer
- 5 ounces of 12% ABV wine
- 1.5 ounces of 40% ABV distilled spirits
A 23.5-ounce can of Four Loko with 12% ABV contains 2.82 ounces of pure alcohol (23.5 x 0.12), which is equivalent to 4.7 standard drinks (2.82 / 0.6). A 14% ABV can is equivalent to over 5.5 standard drinks. This amount aligns with the definition of binge drinking: five or more standard drinks for men (four or more for women) within about two hours.
Comparison of Four Loko to Other Beverages
Comparing Four Loko to other alcoholic beverages helps illustrate its potency:
| Beverage | Volume | ABV | Equivalent per 23.5oz 12% ABV 4 Loko |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beer (Regular) | 12 oz | 5% | ~4.7 12oz beers |
| Wine (Table) | 5 oz | 12% | ~4.7 5oz glasses of wine |
| Vodka (Shot) | 1.5 oz | 40% | ~4.7 1.5oz shots of vodka |
| Malt Liquor | 12 oz | 8% | ~3 12oz cans of malt liquor |
| Hard Seltzer | 12 oz | 5% | ~4.7 12oz hard seltzers |
This comparison shows that consuming a single Four Loko is comparable to drinking almost five standard beers in terms of alcohol volume. The large size and sweet taste can lead to faster consumption than with traditional drinks.
The Dangers of Underestimation and Rapid Consumption
A significant risk of drinking Four Loko is underestimating its alcohol content. Drinking one can means consuming the equivalent of several standard drinks quickly, which can lead to dangerous outcomes:
- Rapid Intoxication: Quick consumption raises Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) rapidly, increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning.
- Binge Drinking: The single-serving format encourages binge drinking, linked to a higher risk of injuries and poor decisions.
- Health Complications: The high alcohol and sugar content can strain organs, potentially leading to long-term health issues with regular consumption.
Modern Alternatives and Safer Practices
Following the controversy around the original Four Loko, other high-ABV flavored malt beverages have become available, such as "BeatBox". These also pose risks due to their concentration and packaging, promoting rapid consumption. Responsible drinking involves knowing standard drink sizes and moderating intake. Choosing lower-ABV options or making controlled mixed drinks allows for better management of alcohol consumption compared to high-ABV single-serving drinks. A standard cocktail with 1.5 oz of vodka contains one standard drink, while a Four Loko is equivalent to nearly five of these.
Conclusion
Determining what is the equivalent of drinking a 4 Loko depends on the specific ABV, but a 23.5-ounce can consistently equates to approximately five standard drinks. The high alcohol concentration in a single container makes it potent and potentially dangerous. It's crucial to understand that not all alcoholic beverages have equal alcohol content and to practice responsible consumption to avoid the risks of rapid, high-volume alcohol intake.
