Wine and Beer: Moderation, not Prohibition – La Prealpina
Wine and Beer, my commentary published in La Prealpina argues against the increasing push to regulate wine and beer like tobacco. The real enemy is not alcohol itself, but its abuse. Policies that impose warning labels, restrictive taxation, and sales limitations fail to address the root causes of alcohol abuse and instead undermine personal responsibility and cultural heritage.
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Wine and Beer: Moderation, not Prohibition
There is growing momentum in Europe and globally to treat alcoholic beverages as a primary cause of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Proposals include warning labels such as “causes cancer,” higher taxes, and restricted sales, similar to tobacco control measures. However, this approach is flawed. Scientific evidence and historical context show that moderate consumption of wine and beer – especially as part of a balanced diet – does not pose the same risks as excessive alcohol intake. The real issue is abuse, which stems from deeper social and individual factors.
READ IT: HANDS-OFF WINE AND BEER – HUFFPOST
Overly restrictive policies threaten personal freedoms, economic stability, and centuries-old traditions. The wine and beer industries are pillars of many regional economies, tied to history, culture, and local identity. Eliminating or drastically limiting these beverages would not make societies healthier but would cause economic damage and cultural loss. Furthermore, history and medical science support the idea that moderate alcohol consumption can be beneficial. Even ancient medical practitioners, such as Hippocrates, recognized its positive effects.
The numbers contradict alarmist narratives. Harmful alcohol consumption and related mortality rates have dropped significantly in the past decade. Data from the EU show that binge drinking has declined, particularly among young people. Instead of imposing prohibitions, policymakers should focus on education and awareness, reinforcing individual responsibility. True public health solutions come from knowledge, not blanket restrictions. The best approach is to encourage balanced lifestyles through informed choices, not fear-based regulations.
