Beer consumption in times of Covid-19

The alcohol industry, overall, experienced a considerable decline owing to reasons including health scare, bars being closed and limited availability among others. However, with restrictions on the opening of F&B outlets being eased, and boost in home delivery of alcoholic beverages including craft beer, the segment seems to be getting back on track slowly.

On the subject of beer consumption in this pandemic crisis, Moksh Sani, managing director of Living Liquidz India says “Beer as a beverage enjoys a loyal base of customers. After the restrictions on alcohol retail were lifted, we were under the prenotion that this wouldn’t change especially with the summer heat on us and the fact that beer would be a hassle-free option for people at home.

“To our surprise, the consumption of beer reduced drastically and the loyal beer clientele also started opting for alternate options. However, we have seen it picking up since July again because you can’t keep a beer lover away from his/her pint for long.”

Trends

There is a need now for the alcohol industry to not just sustain but also transform their product to entice more and more customers. Even for the beer industry, it is vital that they focus on new ways of attracting ‘alcobev’ lovers. Following this, we can except several new trends in the beer market.

Bhakti Mehta, co-founder of Tapped, India’s craft beer, food and music festival says “A major trend that we will soon see is that due to growlers available on delivery – the demand for good craft beers will increase. These growlers would be perfect for weekend drinking sessions, small celebrations, and even to take to parties all in the comfort and safety of your homes.”

Did you know?

Noel Mendes, restaurant manager, Renaissance Mumbai and Lakeside Chalet – Marriott Executive Apartments has curated few interesting health-related facts around beer:

  • Drinking stout could help fight cancer.
  • Drinking beer reduces the risk of ischemic stroke.
  • Drinking beer significantly lowers the risk of developing type two diabetes.
  • Drinking beer increases good cholesterol.
  • Small consumption of beer reduces the risk of ulcers.
  • Beer intake protects the body against radiation.

Recipes

Lastly, here are a few easy beer cocktail recipes recommended by Nilesh Patel, beverage head (West), Social, Impresario Handmade Restaurants: All below-mentioned cocktails are made using the built-up method.

  • Mango Basil

Ingredients: Mango juices 90 ml; Basil syrup 30 ml and Budweiser

  • Apple Cinnamon

Ingredients: Apple juice 90 ml; cinnamon syrup 20 ml and Budweiser Magnum

  • Slim Shady

Ingredients: Tequila – 45 ml; Earl grey tea 20 ml; orange juice 30 ml; ginger juice  10 ml; Banana clove syrup  30 ml and beer 200 ml