The healthy beverage revolution: The future of non-alcoholic and low-alcohol drinks in a health-conscious world

Abstract

The global appeal of alcohol-free and low-alcohol (NoLo) beverages clearly indicates that consumers are increasingly health-conscious, wellness-oriented, and inclusive, with these changes driven by shifts in culture, society, and regulations. The review covers consumer insights, production technologies, and future research in the NoLo beverages sector. Consumer motivations, particularly those from millennials and Generation Z, include health consciousness, cultural beliefs, and the sober-curious movement, with product demand driven by drinks that provide a sensory experience similar to traditional alcohol. Advances in dealcoholizing techniques, such as vacuum distillation and reverse osmosis, alongside advances in fermentation, and using functional ingredients for drinks have allowed for better quality of drinks; however, the scalability and price remain an issue. There is a gap in the knowledge about understanding long-term consumer behaviors, implementing sustainable methods of production, and seeking new food sources using biotechnological strategies. This review consolidates the current trends and evaluates some technological developments connected with future research opportunities to consider additional psychological, sociological, and environmental dimensions of the NoLo sector. Accordingly, this review deals with by integrating technological, regulatory, and consumer perspectives, offering academic significance for food science and public health.