A lot more calories come from alcohol than people think.
On average, alcohol alone contains 7 calories per gram, which means it’s almost as caloric as fat, Bennett said. Fat contains 9 calories per gram. Protein, on the other hand, contains 4 calories per gram.
Still, no one is sure how new labels would affect alcohol consumption.
Consumers are at the mercy of their bartenders and waiters when they drink at restaurants and bars, because the bartender or waiter can give them a larger serving size. Mixers, such as soda and juices can add calories, too.
Current labeling law is complicated.
Wines containing 14% or more alcohol by volume must list alcohol content. Wines that are 7% to 14% alcohol by volume may list alcohol content or put “light” or “table” wine on the label. “Light” beers must list calorie and carbohydrate content only. Liquor must list alcohol content by volume and may also list proof, a measure of alcoholic strength.
Wine, beer and liquor manufacturers don’t have to list ingredients but must list substances people might be sensitive to, such as sulfites, certain food colorings and aspartame.
Coming Soon: Nutrition Labels Coming To Alcohol? was originally published on blackdoctor.org
