New research indicates a significant shift in the drinking habits of British adults, with average weekly alcohol consumption falling to its lowest level on record. This trend towards moderation, rather than widespread abstention, is shaping festive plans, with a large majority intending to keep a closer eye on their intake this Christmas.
Record Low in Alcohol Consumption
Figures from research company IWSR, published in the Financial Times, show that the average UK adult drank 10.2 alcoholic drinks per week in 2023. This marks the lowest figure since records began in 1990 and represents a decline of more than a quarter from the peak of 14 drinks weekly recorded two decades ago.
Interestingly, this decline is not being driven by a surge in people giving up alcohol entirely. Instead, analysts point to a cultural move towards more moderate drinking habits across the population.
Marten Lodewijks, president of IWSR, highlighted several key factors behind this trend. "The population is ageing and older consumers physiologically can’t drink as much," he explained. He also cited growing health consciousness and the pressure from the increased cost of living, which means "people just can’t afford to ‘drink out’ as much."
Festive Intentions and Health Guidelines
Despite the overall decline, the latest data suggests the average consumption still exceeds the NHS recommended limit of 14 units of alcohol per week. For context, ten pints of low-strength beer equate to roughly 20 units, while ten large glasses of wine can total around 30 units.
The approach to the festive season reflects this new moderation. A survey by the charity Drinkaware found that nearly three-quarters (73%) of UK adult drinkers plan to moderate their alcohol consumption over Christmas. Meanwhile, about a quarter (28%) admit they will likely drink more during the holidays but intend to cut back in the new year.
A Balanced Approach to Festive Celebrations
Karen Tyrell, chief executive of Drinkaware, welcomed the conscious planning shown by the public. "With nearly three in four of us planning ahead this Christmas, this balanced approach to our festive fun is great to see," she said.
Tyrell offered practical advice for those looking to enjoy the season without excess. She recommended starting by understanding your own habits, using tools like the drinking check on the Drinkaware website. Sticking to the chief medical officers’ low-risk guidelines of no more than 14 units a week, spread over three or more days with some drink-free days, can make a significant difference.
"Asking friends and family for support can help you stick to any plan you set," she added, "while the growing range of low- and no-alcohol options also makes it easier to swap out some drinks on a night out."
The combination of economic factors, health awareness, and an ageing population is fundamentally altering the UK's relationship with alcohol, steering the nation towards a more measured approach, even during traditionally boozy celebrations.
