In many places, bitters are classified as non-alcoholic beverages due to their low alcohol content. This classification often exempts them from the age restrictions that apply to alcoholic beverages. As a result, you typically do not need to show an ID to buy bitters.
Bitters can commonly be found for sale in grocery stores and specialty shops alongside other cooking and baking ingredients. They are usually displayed in the same section as other flavorings and extracts. This accessibility is due to their classification as non-alcoholic, making them readily available for purchase by anyone, regardless of age.
I have personally experienced purchasing bitters without needing to show an ID. I remember buying bitters for a cocktail recipe I wanted to try out. I simply went to a local grocery store, found the section with baking ingredients, and picked up a bottle of bitters without any age verification required.
It is important to note that the alcohol content in bitters is typically very low, usually less than 0.5% alcohol by volume. This minimal alcohol content is what allows them to be classified as non-alcoholic in many jurisdictions. However, the exact alcohol content may vary between different brands and types of bitters, so it’s always a good idea to check the label if you have any concerns.
In some cases, certain specialty or artisanal bitters may have higher alcohol content due to the extraction process or the use of stronger alcoholic bases. However, even in these cases, they may still fall within the non-alcoholic category as long as the alcohol content remains below a specific threshold set by local regulations.
To sum up, bitters are often exempt from the age restrictions that apply to alcoholic beverages due to their classification as non-alcoholic. This means that in many places, you do not need to show an ID when purchasing bitters. They can be found in grocery stores and specialty shops alongside other cooking and baking ingredients, making them easily accessible to anyone. However, it’s important to be aware of the alcohol content in bitters, which is typically very low but may vary between different brands and types.