Alcohol labelling (ABV)
German: Alkoholkennzeichnung (Volumenprozent) Also known as: Volumenprozent, Alkoholgehalt Angabe, ABV
Statement of the alcohol content in percent by volume on drinks above 1.2 % vol.
Drinks with an alcohol content above 1.2 percent by volume must state the actual alcoholic strength on the label. The usual form is '12% vol' or '12% ABV'. The value refers to the volume of pure alcohol relative to total volume at 20 degrees Celsius.
Small deviations between stated and actual value are permitted depending on the drink type. The statement matters for youth protection, taxation and consumer information. Alcohol-free products follow their own naming rules. The applicable regulations are authoritative.
Related terms
Alcohol duty (spirits duty)'Alcohol-free' designationYouth protection (alcohol sales)Food Information Regulation (FIC)
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