Liquor before beer, best to steer clear? Why people are drinking less these days

Have you been at a party recently and found yourself reaching for sparkling water instead of a glass of wine? Join the club.  

A new Gallup poll found that Americans are drinking less than ever before. Only 54% of U.S. adults are reporting that they consume alcohol. That’s a record low since the survey company started asking about people’s drinking habits back in 1939. 

And young people are drinking less than older Americans, a trend we’re seeing in our region, too: The Seattle Times reports that young people - especially young men - are reporting lower alcohol consumption than other age groups in the area. 

We want to know how local businesses are navigating this -- and what could be behind this shift. 

Guest:

• Emily Ritchie, executive director of the Northwest Cider Association.
• Malcolm Purinton, assistant teaching professor of history at Northeastern University. 

Related stories: 

• U.S. Drinking Rate at New Low as Alcohol Concerns Surge | Gallup 
• How much do adults in Seattle drink? Here’s what new data shows | The Seattle Times

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