Originally published: The National Tribune, 5 December 2024
Experts are warning Australians not to be conned by dodgy alcohol marketing this festive season, as new research released today by The George Institute for Global Health reveals consumers are up to three times more likely to think alcoholic drinks with sugar- or carb-related claims are ‘healthy’ compared to those without. The effect was strongest in younger drinkers (18-24), potentially offsetting recent gains in reducing harmful levels of drinking in this age group.
The results of the new national survey come as government regulators review a growing body of evidence showing consumers’ views are influenced by nutrition claims. Promoting sugar and/or carb levels on premix, cider, beer, spirit and wine products is an increasingly common practice on products targeted at younger drinkers, as the industry tries to counter declining use in this group.
A national sample of 1,356 Australian adults aged 18+ years who consumed alcohol at least twice per month responded to an online survey between 3-21 October 2024. Respondents were recruited via an ISO-accredited panel provider (Pureprofile). The survey looked at perceptions of the healthiness of alcoholic products across premix, cider, beer, spirits and wine categories.
