In the UK, the average alcohol consumption among adults in 2024 was 10.2 standard units of alcohol per week, marking the lowest level in the history of observations, reports the Financial Times, citing data from the research company IWSR.
IWSR has been conducting these observations since 1990. Peak consumption, at 14 units of alcohol per week, was noted two decades ago.
A standard unit of alcohol in the methodology of the non-profit organization Drinkaware is equal to 10 ml of pure alcohol. This amount is contained in one shot of strong alcohol with a volume of 25 ml, while two units are found in a pint of beer or a glass of wine.
The decrease in alcohol consumption is attributed to various factors, including the rising cost of alcoholic beverages, the trend towards a healthy lifestyle, and an aging population. Researchers also note a trend towards purchasing more expensive alcohol while reducing consumption volumes.
According to estimates from the British health service, excessive alcohol consumption corresponds to eight standard units of alcohol per evening for men and six for women.
In a survey by Drinkaware, 57% of Britons intend to drink more than this limit for the upcoming Christmas. In the age group of 18 to 34 years, this proportion increases to approximately 75%.
