Are zero-proof spirits completely alcohol-free?
Most zero-proof spirits are formulated to be strictly 0.0% ABV. Some non-alcoholic alternatives contain up to 0.5% ABV, which is equivalent to the trace amount of natural alcohol found in ripe bananas, kombucha or rye bread. Always read the printed ABV — that number, not the marketing line, tells you whether the bottle is completely alcohol-free.
0.0% ABV versus 0.5% ABV
Zero-proof, used carefully, means no measurable ethanol: 0.0% ABV on the label. “Non-alcoholic” is a wider shop label. In many markets a drink can still be called non-alcoholic if it contains up to 0.5% alcohol by volume.
That 0.5% is a trace. It is in the same range as the alcohol that forms naturally in ripe fruit, some fruit juices and freshly baked bread. It will not get you drunk. It is not, however, the same as nothing. If you need a bottle that is completely alcohol-free, look for 0.0% — not only the words “non-alcoholic” or “alcohol-free”.
How to read a Singapore label
- 0.0% ABV — no measurable alcohol. This is the figure to trust if you want a completely alcohol-free serve.
- Up to 0.5% ABV — legally treated as non-alcoholic in many countries, but it is still a trace of ethanol.
- Dealcoholised wine or beer — often starts as an alcoholic product with the alcohol later removed; residual ABV can sit at 0.5% unless the producer states 0.0%.
On a Singapore bar list you will see “zero-proof”, “alcohol-free” and “0.0%” used together. Ask for the bottle if the menu does not print the ABV.
Barnes & Brown at 0.0% ABV
The Barnes & Brown range stocked by Zero Proof Collective is made as zero-proof spirit at 0.0% ABV — alcohol-free gin, tequila, rum, bourbon, vermouth and aperitif. They are built to mix 1:1 in classic cocktails, not as soft drinks with a spirit name on the label.
For the full line-up see What We Distribute. If you are still settling the term itself, start with what zero-proof means in drinks.
