UK Pubs: 90% Serve Short-Measured Beer
An investigative report has sent shockwaves through the UK's hospitality sector, unveiling a startling revelation: nearly 90% of beer served in pubs and bars across the nation falls short of prescribed measures. Trading Standards officers conducted a comprehensive study, ordering beverages at 77 establishments, and the findings paint a concerning picture of widespread short-measuring practices.
The Investigation:
Trading Standards officers embarked on a mission to assess the accuracy of drink measures in UK pubs and bars. Across 137 orders of beer and wine, a staggering 96 were to be short measures, translating to over two-thirds of drinks failing to meet regulatory standards. The shortfall was particularly pronounced in beer, with 86% of orders falling below the required quantity, while 43% of wine orders suffered the same fate.
Extent of Short-Measuring:
Delving deeper into the investigation, it revealed that 29% of the drinks tested were under 5% or more. On average, short-measured beer fell short by 4%, while wine was deficient by 5%. The financial impact on consumers is substantial, with the average beer drinker losing £1.70 per week and wine enthusiasts facing a weekly deficit of £2.20. Over the course of a year, this equates to £88.40 and £114.40, respectively.
Consumer Sentiment and Legal Ambiguity:
The report also sheds light on consumer sentiment regarding the inclusion of frothy heads in pint measures. While legally permissible, 35% of respondents said that the head should not be included, with only 23% advocating for its inclusion. Organizations like the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) argue against including the head, advocating for a 100% liquid pint.
Call to Action:
Responding to the findings, CTSI chief executive John Herriman emphasized the need for the hospitality sector to prioritize accurate measuring practices. He called for further research to understand the broader impact of short measures on consumers across various goods. With the price of alcoholic beverages soaring, consumers deserve transparency and fair value for their money.
