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Light beer becoming less popular as drinking habits continue to change in the U.S.

Posted at 7:52 AM, Jul 02, 2018
and last updated 2018-07-02 10:54:06-04

Americans appear to be ditching light beer in 2018, and experts say it's because drinking habits are changing.

The Beer Institute says U.S. beer companies have sold 3.5 percent less beer so far this year. It says Americans are drinking more high-quality beer, wine, and liquor instead.

The big four U.S. brands — Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Budweiser — have been hit the hardest in recent months. 

Analysts say it's partly because millennials will switch it up if they decide to grab a drink.

Some can't wait to get their hands on that mimosa at brunch, and others are looking forward to a glass of wine or a cocktail during happy hour.

The Beer Institute says more women are drinking, too. Women are avoiding the beer fridges and more likely to travel to the hard alcohol or wine section.

Americans are still drinking beer , though.

Many people are preferring the "better" beer. Right now, the premium end of the market, like local breweries or imported beer, is growing faster than bigger beer brands.