Can You Drink Alcohol-Free Beer When Breastfeeding?
Written by Jordan Morley · Reviewed against NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding · Last updated 28 October 2026
Yes. Alcohol-free beer (0.0%) is fine while breastfeeding. Drinks labelled 0.5% contain a trace of alcohol, which is too small to matter in normal amounts.
What the guidance says
0.0% beers contain no alcohol. In the UK 'alcohol-free' drinks can contain up to 0.05%, 'de-alcoholised' up to 0.5% and 'low alcohol' up to 1.2%, so check the label if you want to be sure. The NHS advice on alcohol is based on units, and these drinks add very little or none.
You can also check the calorie content of alcohol-free beer alongside its safety information.
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Alcohol-Free Beer: the other answers on this site
| Question | Short answer (links to the full page) |
|---|---|
| In pregnancy | 0.0% is the safe choice |
Common questions
Is alcohol-free beer safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. Alcohol-free beer (0.0%) is fine while breastfeeding. Drinks labelled 0.5% contain a trace of alcohol, which is too small to matter in normal amounts.
Is 0.5% beer OK?
Very small amounts. Check the label for the percentage; the NHS limit is 1–2 units of alcohol once or twice a week.
Does it have caffeine?
Beer does not normally contain caffeine.
Was this different during pregnancy?
In pregnancy our verdict was “0.0% is the safe choice” (see our pregnancy guide for the reasons).
What should I avoid while breastfeeding?
The NHS list is short. Caffeine: try not to have more than 300mg a day (a mug of filter coffee is about 140mg, instant 100mg, tea 75mg). Alcohol: it is safer not to drink, but 1 or 2 units once or twice a week should be fine. Oily fish: no more than 2 portions a week. Shark, swordfish and marlin: no more than 1 portion a week. Peanuts are fine unless you're allergic. Most other foods that were off the menu in pregnancy, such as soft cheese, pâté, cured meat and runny eggs, are not restricted.
Related answers
Primary source: NHS: food and drinks to avoid when breastfeeding.
General information only, not medical advice: see the medical disclaimer. Feeling unwell after eating something? Contact NHS 111 or your GP.