Tag: pint

Lib Dems block ability of Minister to allow metric measures for draught beer

The Liberal Democrats have become the latest political party to join the populist “save the pint” bandwagon. However, on this occasion their action will not only preserve the use of the imperial pint as the only legal measurement unit for the dispensing of draught beer, but arguably it will also prevent government Ministers from allowing metric measures for draught beer in the future, even if only as an optional alternative to pints.

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The health benefits of switching to metric beer sizes

This week saw the publication of research into the effects of reducing the standard serving size of draught beer in the UK.

The University of Cambridge study was described by its leader as being “the first real-world study to look at this”. It shows that reducing the current standard beer glass size in bars, pubs and restaurants from the current pint (568 ml) size has the potential to reduce the total amount of alcohol consumed in the UK, and should be given consideration as part of the Government’s fight to reduce the effects of alcohol consumption on health.

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Don’t expect to see pints of wine in the shops

After the Government published its response to the imperial units consultation in late December 2023, they said that they will add a 568 ml (pint-size) to the list of permitted sizes for wine bottles as well as the new 200 ml size for still wine and the new 500 ml size for sparkling wine. The headlines in the Government press release and in the media suggesting that pint-sized wine bottles will appear in the shops are misleading because it depends on winemakers making them but there has been a lack of interest in making them.

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Third of a pint, anyone?

Some goods must be sold in fixed sizes. These sizes are known as specified quantities. Draught beer and cider are the only products with specified quantities in non-metric units. If you want to order a glass of draught beer or cider, how many sizes up to (and including) one pint can a publican legally serve you? You will probably be surprised to hear the answer.

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Milk in a muddle

Recent reports of the difficulties facing Britain’s milk producers have prompted Ronnie Cohen to look into the muddle sorrounding retail packaging and pricing of all types of milk.

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Devolve Weights and Measures – says pro-metric group

Weights and Measures and related matters (such as road signs) should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament – according to the UK Metric Association.
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