Is root beer alcoholic? Specifically, I’m wondering about commercially produced root beer, the kind you’d buy in a grocery store or at a restaurant. I know it’s often marketed towards children, so I’m assuming the answer is generally no, but are there any exceptions? Are there certain brands or varieties that do contain alcohol? Also, does the brewing or fermentation process used to make root beer typically produce any alcohol, even if it’s a very small amount, and is that amount regulated? And finally, does the answer change if we’re talking about homemade or "craft" root beer recipes?

Answer

Traditionally made root beer can contain a very small amount of alcohol due to the fermentation process. However, most commercially produced root beer today is non-alcoholic.

Historical Context:

• Fermentation: Root beer was originally made through a fermentation process using ingredients like sassafras root, spices, and sugar. Fermentation naturally produces ethanol (alcohol) as a byproduct.

• Small Alcohol Content: The alcohol content in traditionally brewed root beer was typically very low, usually less than 0.5% Alcohol By Volume (ABV). This is similar to the alcohol content found in kombucha or some fermented foods.

Modern Root Beer:

• Non-Alcoholic Production: Most commercially available root beer is now produced using artificial flavorings and carbonation, without fermentation.

• Legal Definition: In many countries, beverages with an ABV of less than 0.5% are legally considered non-alcoholic.

• Labeling: If a commercially produced root beer contains more than 0.5% ABV, it is typically labeled as an alcoholic beverage.

Therefore:

The vast majority of root beer sold today is non-alcoholic. However, it’s always best to check the label for clarification, especially if you are purchasing root beer from a small-batch or craft producer.