Czech breweries are tapping into a growing health and fitness trend by producing lower-carbohydrate and lower-alcohol beers, catering to a consumer base increasingly focused on wellness and mindful consumption. The shift reflects a broader global movement, but is particularly notable in a country with a deeply ingrained beer culture traditionally centered around higher-calorie lagers.
Zlatá Kráva brewery in Nepomuk recently launched “Low Carb Ale,” boasting just 22 calories per 100 milliliters, a significant reduction compared to the 250 calories found in many traditional Czech lagers. “The idea was to drink beer without guilt,” explained Žaneta Petružálková, the brewery’s master brewer. The beer undergoes a highly fermented process to minimize residual sugar and has been certified by an accredited laboratory.
According to Tomáš Sladký, marketing chief at Zlatá Kráva, Czech beer culture is evolving, with younger generations prioritizing quality over quantity and paying closer attention to their calorie intake. “Young people aren’t drinking as much. They’ll have three or four good beers and savor them, and they’re mindful of their lifestyle and calories,” Sladký said. The new ale contains 3.2 percent alcohol.
Prague’s Board brewery has likewise entered the market, producing an 8-degree Lowcarb – session brut IPA for the past six months. Michael Král, Board’s brewer, noted that the beer primarily appeals to consumers seeking to reduce their sugar intake. “Mainly those who don’t want to load up on a lot of sugar buy it,” Král said. “The standard beer drinker won’t buy it since it’s too weak, it has three percent alcohol.” He added that the beer is gaining traction in bars, pubs, and sports venues.
Production costs for the low-carb IPA are similar to those of a traditional 12-degree beer, but Board utilizes American hops to create an attractive aroma. Král indicated that at least half of the brewery’s production is now dedicated to these healthier options.
Larger Czech brewer Pilsner Urquell has offered Gambrinus Dry for several years, catering to health-conscious consumers. “Thanks to higher fermentation, we are meeting the needs of beer drinkers who embrace a modern lifestyle and can enjoy beer in moderation as part of a recommended diet, while still retaining the excellent taste of Pilsner beer,” said Pilsner Urquell spokesperson Zdeněk Kovář. The company reports a slight year-over-year increase in sales of the lower-calorie option, although it remains a smaller segment of their overall portfolio.
Josef Krýsl, a brewing expert who has built 90 minipivovars in the Czech Republic and abroad, recalls the existence of similar low-sugar beers, known as “dia pivo,” decades ago. “So, nothing new under the sun. The initially novel, low-cost beer for diabetics saw declining consumption over time,” Krýsl said. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between bitterness and sweetness in low-carbohydrate beers.
“If it takes off, other breweries, including the large ones, will quickly follow suit,” Krýsl added. “It’s not a major trend yet, but it’s a welcome addition to the market.”
