Why are a 12 ounce hard seltzer and 1.5 ounces of liquor both standard drinks? A. They have the same impact B. They have the same amount of calories C. They contain the same amount of pure alcohol D. They should cost the same amount E. Both A and B
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer: C. They contain the same amount of pure alcohol
A 12-ounce hard seltzer and 1.5 ounces of liquor are both considered standard drinks because each contains approximately the same amount of pure alcohol, which is about 14 grams or 0.6 fluid ounces. The key factor that defines a “standard drink” is the quantity of ethanol, the type of alcohol found in alcoholic beverages, rather than the total volume of the beverage itself.
Different alcoholic beverages have varying alcohol concentrations. Hard seltzer generally has around 5% alcohol by volume (ABV), while distilled spirits such as vodka, whiskey, or rum typically contain 40% ABV. Although the serving sizes differ significantly—12 ounces for a typical can of hard seltzer versus just 1.5 ounces for a shot of liquor—the total amount of pure alcohol in each is roughly equal.
This standardization helps health experts and drinkers measure and track alcohol intake across different beverage types. For example, a 5-ounce glass of wine at 12% ABV and a 12-ounce beer at 5% ABV also qualify as standard drinks because they contain the same amount of alcohol as a shot of distilled liquor.
Understanding standard drinks is crucial for responsible alcohol consumption. It allows individuals to better monitor how much alcohol they are consuming, which is especially important when considering health guidelines, legal limits for driving, or avoiding alcohol misuse. It also aids in comparing different drinks fairly, regardless of how they are served or what type they are.
Calories, cost, or subjective effects may vary significantly between these drinks. Therefore, the most consistent and scientifically accurate way to define a standard drink is based on the amount of pure alcohol—not volume, calories, or perceived effect
.
