Myths around beer sugar content busted

Of the respondents 68 per cent said they thought that beer was high in sugar. Photo / iStock

The next time you're looking for a low-sugar beverage you might want to think about swapping your Coke for something a bit stronger.

A study from the United Kingdom has found that a glass of beer contains "significantly less" sugar than a can of Coke, a cappuccino or a glass of cordial.

The Campden BRI Food and Innovation study analysed the calorie content of 52 alcoholic drinks and found that most beers have less than 1 gram of sugar per 100ml.

This compares to 10.6 grams per 100ml for Coca-Cola, 7.8 grams for orange cordial and 4.3 grams for a cappuccino.

The data is included in a report commissioned by the British Beer and Pub Association, who represent brewers and pubs in the UK.

Brewers Association director of external relations Kevin Sinnott said the idea that "moderate responsible consumption of beer is unhealthy and makes you fat" is a "myth".

Of the respondents 68 per cent said they thought that beer was high in sugar.

"We believe that most New Zealanders are also unaware of the nutritional content of beer," Mr Sinnott said.