Non-Alcoholic Beverage Options
The consumption of alcohol is common among college students. Many students socialize at bars and parties where drinking alcohol is often expected and encouraged. Despite how common alcohol can be in college, many students choose not to drink, often because they are driving, religious or health reasons. The prevalence of alcoholic beverages in collegiate social settings can cause people who are avoiding alcohol to feel awkward or left out. Fun and delicious non-alcoholic beverages can make social settings involving alcohol more enjoyable and comfortable for students who are not drinking.
A great nonalcoholic beverage to bring to parties is Liquid Death. These seltzers are lightly sweetened using agave nectar, making them stand out from other seltzers such as LaCroix and Bubly. Liquid Death makes a great alternative to alcohol because it comes in tall boy cans plastered with horror art, causing these seltzers to look similar to beer cans. This deceptive appearance allows drinkers of Liquid Death to blend in better than they would drink other seltzers, which can help people feel included without having to drink.
While ordering virgin cocktails may seem odd, many non-alcoholic mixed drinks are delicious. People who want to be discreet should consider simple drinks such as club soda or tonic water with lime. Many pre-existing cocktails, such as Bloody Marys and Sunrises, are still delicious without liquor, so designated drivers can still enjoy mixed drinks during a night out with friends.
Even fermented beverages, such as kombucha and beer, often have nonalcoholic versions. Although these can offer a great alternative to alcohol for many students, people considering nonalcoholic fermented beverages should be aware that they can still contain up to 0.5% ABV. Although this trace amount of alcohol is not enough to cause psychoactive effects, some people may still be uncomfortable drinking nonalcoholic beer and kombucha, especially if they are avoiding alcohol for religious reasons.
Whether they are trying to completely abstain from alcohol or simply reduce or limit their consumption, college students should be aware of non-alcoholic options for social situations in which drinking is encouraged or expected. For students who avoid drinking, whether for health or religious reasons or simply to avoid the psychoactive effects caused by alcoholic beverages, these suggestions can help them feel more included and comfortable in these situations. Despite how embedded alcohol is in college culture—not to mention society as a whole—people should remember that not drinking during a night out is a valid option that does not have to mean sacrificing fun.
