How many units are in a can of beer?
1.8units
That is a 440ml can at 4% ABV. One UK unit is 10ml of pure alcohol. The weekly guideline of 14 units works out at about 7 of these across a whole week.
Cans come in 330ml, 440ml and 500ml, and the difference matters. A 500ml can of 5% lager holds more alcohol than a 330ml bottle of the same beer by half again.
Units by size and strength
| Drink | Size | Strength | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| Can (330ml) of 4% | 330ml | 4% | 1.3 |
| Can (440ml) of 4%Most common | 440ml | 4% | 1.8 |
| Can (440ml) of 5% | 440ml | 5% | 2.2 |
| Can (500ml) of 4.5% | 500ml | 4.5% | 2.3 |
| Can (500ml) of 5.5% | 500ml | 5.5% | 2.8 |
| Can (568ml) of 4% | 568ml | 4% | 2.3 |
How this is worked out
units = volume (ml) × ABV (%) ÷ 1000
For a 440ml can at 4% ABV: 440 × 4 ÷ 1000 = 1.8 units.
Try the unit calculatorThe weekly guideline
The UK Chief Medical Officers advise no more than 14units a week for men and women alike, spread over three days or more, with several drink-free days. Drinking a week's worth in one session carries its own risks, separate from the weekly total.
If you drink heavily every day, stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Speak to your GP before cutting down sharply.
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