Trade slams proposal to add vitamins to beer
The trade has strongly criticised proposals being considered by the Scottish Parliament to add vitamins to beer, which is believed to reduce the risk of brain damage to heavy drinkers. The proposal follows medical studies which show that thiamine, or vitamin B1, can help to prevent a disease called Wernicke's encephalopathy.
Alcoholics are particularly at risk from the condition, which can lead to a form of psychosis if not treated with thiamine injections.
Adding thiamine to beer during the brewing process has been proposed in Australia as a means of preventing the condition.
The idea has now been taken up by Scottish Ministers, who have asked health advisers to assess the extent of the problem.
But the proposal has been slammed by the trade and by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), which represents drinkers.
Mike Benner, head of campaigns and communications at CAMRA, said: "While there is evidence moderate amounts of alcohol has health benefits, this seems to be suggesting that putting thiamine in beer makes it acceptable to drink six or seven pints and it won't rot your brain."
A spokeswoman for the Scottish Executive said no decision was imminent, and that ministers would decide how to progress when they had a clearer idea of the scale of the problem.
David Brown, marketing director of the Caledonian Brewery, said: "Our view as a brewer of cask ale is that we don't want to include artificial additives of any kind. In addition, heavy drinking is certainly not something we'd want to encourage or be associated with. Our message is that you should enjoy a pint or two of a quality product rather than drink to excess.
"We would hope that there would be a full consultation with the trade before any decision is taken. We have very good contacts with our MPs and representatives and will be making our views clear."
Thiamine is found in foods such as cereals, dairy products, fruit and eggs, and is already added to bread to make up for its loss during manufacture. It is also sold in tablet form as a dietary supplement.
