How Many Calories in a Pint of Lager? A Quick Guide for Beer Lovers

If you're watching your calories but still love a refreshing pint, you're not alone. Whether you're counting macros, cutting back after the holidays, or just curious, knowing how many calories are in a lager can help you enjoy your favourite drink with a bit more balance.

🍻 The Average Calories in a Lager

A standard 330ml bottle or can of regular lager contains around 120 to 150 calories. This can vary depending on the brand, alcohol content (ABV), and whether it's a full-strength, low-carb, or alcohol-free version.

Here’s a quick comparison:

• Standard lager (4.5% ABV, 330ml): ~140 kcal

• Low-alcohol lager (0.5% ABV, 330ml): ~60 kcal

• Alcohol-free lager (0.0% ABV, 330ml): ~40 kcal

• High-strength lager (6% ABV+, 330ml): ~180+ kcal

📈 What Affects the Calorie Count?

1. Alcohol Content (ABV): The higher the ABV, the more calories you're drinking. Alcohol contributes almost 7 calories per gram.

2. Residual Sugars: Some lagers are brewed with added sugars or have more residual sugar left post-fermentation.

3. Serving Size: A pint (568ml) of standard lager can have 200–250 calories depending on strength.

🍺 How Many Alcohol Units in a Pint of Lager?

In the UK, alcohol units are calculated with the formula:
ABV (%) × volume (ml) ÷ 1000 = units of alcohol

For a standard pint of lager (568ml):

• 4% ABV = 2.3 units

• 4.5% ABV = 2.6 units

• 5% ABV = 2.8 units

This is useful to know if you're tracking your weekly alcohol intake or aiming to stay within the UK Chief Medical Officers’ guideline of no more than 14 units per week.

⚡ Healthier Lager Options

If you’re looking for a lighter option but don’t want to sacrifice flavour, try:

• Roley's Super Natural Low Calorie Lager (4.4% ABV) – a crisp, low-calorie option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

• Green's Dry-Hopped Lager (Gluten-Free) – perfect for gluten-sensitive drinkers who want a lighter, hoppy lager.

• Flötzinger Alkoholfrei Weissbier (0.0% ABV) – alcohol-free and full of Bavarian flavour.

• Jever Fun Alcohol-Free Pilsner (0.5% ABV) – a sharp, refreshing pilsner with only a fraction of the calories.

Browse More Low-Calorie and Alcohol-Free Beers →

🍻 Final Sip

Lager doesn’t have to be off-limits if you’re counting calories. With a bit of knowledge and the right choices, you can still enjoy your favourite brew without overdoing it.

Cheers to smarter sipping!

Looking to discover even more about your favourite beer style? Check out our guide on lagers – perfect for expanding your palate while keeping things refreshing.