InBev shuns accusations over Artois Bock

InBev UK has slammed reports that it is encouraging dangerous drinking through its new Artois Bock beer.

The beer, which is 6.2 per cent ABV and served in half-pint glasses, has been criticised by Alcohol Concern and anti-drink-drive groups. They claim consumers are being misled and being put in a dangerous position as they don't know how strong the beer - which continues the trend of stronger premium lagers - actually is.

However, a spokesman for InBev UK said: "These kind of irresponsible and sensationalist comments add nothing constructive to the debate about binge-drinking in the UK. Artois Bock is no stronger than many other beers on the market.

"We have done everything we can to ensure the introduction of Bock is done in the most responsible way. People need to stop blaming the products and instead look at how they are being used or in some cases abused."

Artois Bock, launched in June, is part of a growing number of strong lagers entering the market.

Only last month Cobra beer unveiled King Cobra, an eight per cent lager aimed at gastropubs. InBev has enjoyed recent success with a raft of Belgian beers with higher than average ABVs, such as Leffe (6.5 per cent).