Alcohol consumption is drying up.
The latest: Per Gallup, drinking has reached its lowest rate ever, with 54% of Americans imbibing.
Risk check. 53% now believe even moderate drinking is bad for health, with women and young adults leading the curve.
Well founded, the WHO warned no amount of alcohol is safe, while US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy linked consumption to increased cancer risk — convincing many to forgo moderation for abstinence.
Mixed drinks. Despite changing attitudes, up to 70% of US Gen Z adults still drink, seeing the risk-reward as part of a balanced lifestyle.
Exploring other vices, nicotine pouches and THC beverages lend to “Cali sober” living, while “soft clubbing” proves hedonic pleasure and sobriety aren’t mutually exclusive.
Takeaway: Even with alcohol’s adverse effects, not everyone is quitting. Whether consumers partake depends on alternatives that match its buzz, ritual, and social pull.
