Freestar launch alcohol-free beer using ‘new’ production process

Newly-formed UK company Freestar has launched its alcohol-free brand with its first product, 0.0% alcohol-free beer and believes its alternative production process creates an alcohol-free beer that maintains its original flavour. 

As opposed to the typical fermentation process which removes alcohol from full strength beer to create a non-alcoholic product, Freestar blends 100% natural ingredients without yeast, which guarantees its 0.0% ABV. The brand-new company claims it is the first alcohol-free beer made by an alcohol-free process.

Rather than brew the beer, Freestar blends malted barley and perle hops with pomelo and bergamot. At 62 calories, Freestar is also low in sugar, free-from gluten and suitable for vegans. 

Co-founder of Freestar Charlie Crawley said: “The old way destructively strips alcohol and flavour out of full strength beer. That’s why we say Freestar is created not destroyed.

“Freestar’s production process is also much more efficient and sustainable. We use 80% less water and create 70% less waste than traditional methods.”

The pending b corporation Freestar was set up by three men: Charlie Crawley, Eddy Dallas and Felix von Hurter, who left their jobs at Sipsmith, Propercorn and Tesla respectively in March 2019 to go full time. Along with the former head of product development at Diageo and a World Cup of Beer judge, Freestar’s alcohol-free beer was developed and has since won a 2019 World Beer Award as a UK winner in the low alcohol category.

Alcohol-free products have been expanding, as consumers are actively choosing to reduce alcohol consumption, as a response to the wider key trends of health, wellness and sustainability.

“Choosing not to drink alcohol shouldn’t mean choosing to compromise. So we created a groundbreaking beer that lets you get more from your night,” said Crawley.

Freestar’s 0.0% alcohol-free beer is available for a RRP of £2.25 per 330ml bottle (off trade).