Standard Drinks - Consumption and Safety

Children and young people are usually more affected by alcohol than adults because of their lower body weight and lack of tolerance. Accordingly there is a higher percentage of alcohol related accidents in the younger age groups. This is particularly evident in motor vehicle accidents and drownings among young people.

Any alcoholic drink which contains 10 grams of alcohol is called a standard drink. Many of the more common serves of alcoholic drinks by the glass contain about one standard drink.

A standard drink is described as one of the following;

• A glass or ‘middy’ of full - strength beer 4.8 – 4.9% (285mls) .
• A nip of spirits (30mls).
• A small glass of wine or champagne (100mls).
• A can of Mid –strength beer 3.5% (375mls).
• A small glass of Port (60mls).

A glass of Wine or Champagne can be deceptive. Many glasses used in Hotels and restaurants contain much more than one standard drink. Many hold nearer to two.