How to Calculate Pure Alcohol Grams (Units)
Pure alcohol (g) = volume (mL) x ABV/100 x 0.8 (ethanol density). A 500 mL 5% beer = 500 x 0.05 x 0.8 = 20 g. Japan counts 1 drink as 10 g, the US as 14 g, the UK unit as 8 g.
Open the interactive Everyday Lifestyle tool →Formula: g = mL x ABV/100 x 0.8
Key facts
| Formula | g = mL x ABV/100 x 0.8 |
|---|---|
| Beer 500 mL 5% | 20 g (2.0 JP drinks) |
| Sake 1 go 180 mL 15% | 21.6 g |
| JP drink / US drink / UK unit | 10 g / 14 g / 8 g |
| Ethanol density | 0.8 g/mL |
Frequently asked questions
How many grams of alcohol in a 350 mL 5% beer?
14 g: 350 x 0.05 x 0.8 = 14 g, which equals 1.4 Japanese drinks.
How much pure alcohol is in one go of sake?
About 21.6 g: 180 mL x 15% x 0.8 = 21.6 g (2.16 Japanese drinks).
What is the moderate daily amount?
Japan's Health Japan 21 cites about 20 g/day of pure alcohol for men as a moderate amount (general information).
Related pages
The calculations on this page are estimates based on common general-purpose formulas. They are not medical advice -- consult a doctor or other qualified professional for decisions about your health.
Alcohol Units Calculator is part of Everyday Lifestyle on GOAT Lab — a free reference you can use without signing up, and it works offline. Open the tool above for any custom value.
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