A team of researchers from the University of New South Wales in Australia has explored how the use of nonalcoholic wine and beer among young people might influence their later interest in real alcoholic beverages. The findings appeared in Appetite, a reputable scientific journal focused on eating and drinking behaviors.
The study tracked nearly 600 adolescents and young adults, inviting them to recount their experiences with zero alcohol drinks and to describe their taste preferences. The researchers found that a majority of participants, more than half, found nonalcoholic options to beer and wine appealing. About one in three indicated they had previously tried such beverages during adolescence.
Participants also described nonalcoholic versions of alcoholic drinks as potential entry points into the category, suggesting these products could raise the likelihood of purchasing beer or wine later in life and consuming them more actively. The researchers noted that when parents and peers encouraged choosing nonalcoholic products, the favorable associations with taste and consumption patterns tended to strengthen. This kind of positive early experience could, in some cases, correlate with an increased risk of developing alcohol dependence in adulthood.
Earlier work by scientists indicated notable changes in the brains of young drinkers, highlighting the ongoing importance of understanding how early exposure shapes long term drinking behaviors.
Overall, the findings emphasize the need for careful guidance around nonalcoholic beverages for youth. While these drinks do not contain intoxicating amounts of alcohol, their availability and social appeal can influence attitudes toward alcoholic beverages later on. Health educators and policymakers may consider messaging that helps youths distinguish between enjoying nonalcoholic options and forming patterns that could lead to alcohol misuse. The study invites a broader conversation about how early taste experiences, social influences, and family norms intersect to shape future drinking choices without assigning blame to individuals or families, but instead encouraging informed decision making and safer habits.