Alcoholic Beverages 'Should Have Calorie Labeling' to Help Fight Obesity

Most of us enjoy a drink now and then, at home or when we party with friends. But how many people in Exeter and across Devon (UK) actually know how many calories are in our favourite alcoholic beverages such as beer and wine? The local authorities have said alcoholic drinks should have calorie counts on their packaging because it will help fight obesity.

A recent research showed the public was less aware of the "hidden" calories in alcohol than they were about its potential to cause illness.

Study results showed that about 80% of members of the public did not know there were up to 228 calories in a large glass of wine. Also, nine in 10 members of the public were unaware that a pint of lager contained around 180 calories.

Such calories are "empty" because they hold no nutritional value and alcohol also reduces the amount of fat burned for energy, the Local Government Association (LGA) said.

Two-thirds of participants in the study supported the idea of labeling bottles and cans.

"Breweries and drinks manufacturers should show leadership in tackling the obesity crisis, by voluntarily providing clear signs on bottles and cans of alcohol," said Cllr Izzi Seccombe, the LGA's community well-being spokeswoman.

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Source-Medindia