You can definitely get alcohol in ginger beer. While ginger beer is traditionally known for its non-alcoholic qualities and is often enjoyed as a refreshing and spicy beverage, it can also be fermented to produce alcohol.
The alcohol content in ginger beer can vary depending on the brewing process and the length of fermentation. Typically, ginger beer is consumed “green,” which means it is consumed shortly after the fermentation process begins and before it reaches high alcohol levels. In this form, ginger beer has a relatively low alcohol content, similar to that of a light beer.
However, it is worth noting that ginger beer has the potential to reach higher alcohol levels if left to ferment for an extended period of time. According to the Huffington Post, ginger beer can reach an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 11%, which is roughly twice the strength of a typical light beer. This higher alcohol content is achieved when the fermentation process continues for a longer duration, allowing the yeast to convert more of the sugars into alcohol.
It’s important to remember that the alcohol content in ginger beer can vary depending on the specific recipe and brewing techniques used. Some commercial brands may intentionally produce ginger beer with higher alcohol content, while others may focus on maintaining a lower alcohol content to cater to a wider audience.
In my personal experience, I have come across ginger beers with varying levels of alcohol content. Some were quite mild and had a subtle alcohol presence, while others had a more pronounced kick. It’s always a good idea to check the label or do some research on a specific ginger beer to determine its alcohol content if you’re looking for a particular strength.
To summarize, while ginger beer is typically enjoyed as a non-alcoholic beverage, it can contain alcohol when fermented. The alcohol content can vary, with “green” ginger beer having a lower alcohol content similar to light beer, but it can also reach higher levels of alcohol if left to ferment for a longer period of time.