As Dry January continues, more and more people are turning to mocktails as a way to still enjoy a drink without alcohol. Bars and restaurants are now offering zero-proof, non-alcoholic spirits on their menus, and the trend is catching on. According to Nielsen IQ, non-alcoholic drink sales stood at $395 million nationwide between August 2021 and 2022, showing a year-on-year growth of over 20%.
One Dallas bar, BarNone, has seen about 10% of its sales come from mocktails alone. Owner Todd Dickerson told WFAA that mocktails are a great option for non-drinkers or those trying to cut back on alcohol but still want to fit in with their friends. He also notes that non-alcoholic cocktails can help people maintain their sobriety as they blend in and often face less pressure to drink.
Medical experts also see the benefits of the mocktail trend. Jeri Lawarence, Director of Nursing at Gallus Medical Detox, told WFAA that alcohol can cause a rise in blood pressure and heart rate, as well as digestive and esophageal problems. By cutting back on alcohol consumption, people can develop better-coping mechanisms and avoid these potential health issues.
Many bars and restaurants are now offering a wide variety of non-alcoholic cocktails, from fruity and refreshing to spicy and savory. Some bars are even experimenting with using non-alcoholic spirits to create more complex and sophisticated mocktails. This allows people to enjoy a drink that is similar to a traditional cocktail but without the alcohol content.
Additionally, mocktails are also a great option for people who are pregnant, have a medical condition that prohibits them from drinking alcohol or are designated drivers. It allows everyone to be included in the social aspect of having a drink without having to feel left out.
Overall, mocktails are a trend that is here to stay. They provide a healthier and more inclusive option for people who want to enjoy a night out without the negative effects of alcohol. As the mocktail trend continues to grow, we can expect to see even more creative and delicious non-alcoholic options on bar menus.
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