Hazy IPAs, also known as New England IPAs or NEIPAs, have gained immense popularity in recent years for their juicy and tropical flavors, as well as their distinct hazy appearance. These beers are characterized by their use of specific yeast strains and large amounts of hops, resulting in a cloudy and unfiltered appearance.
When it comes to calorie content, hazy IPAs tend to be on the higher end due to a few factors. Firstly, the use of more malt in the brewing process contributes to a higher calorie count. Malt provides the sugars that yeast ferments into alcohol, but it also adds carbohydrates and calories to the final product. Hazy IPAs often have a higher malt bill compared to other beer styles, resulting in more calories.
Furthermore, the alcohol content of hazy IPAs can also contribute to their calorie content. Hazy IPAs typically have a higher ABV (alcohol by volume) compared to traditional IPAs, which means they contain more alcohol per serving. Alcohol itself is calorie-dense, with 7 calories per gram, compared to carbohydrates and protein which contain 4 calories per gram. Therefore, the higher the alcohol content, the more calories the beer will have.
However, it's worth noting that not all hazy IPAs are high in calories. In recent years, brewers have been experimenting with creating low-calorie and low-alcohol versions of hazy IPAs. These beers often have a reduced malt bill and lower alcohol content, resulting in fewer calories. For example, the Sweetwater High Light hazy IPA is slightly hazy, has only 100 calories, and is 4% ABV.
It's important to remember that calorie content can vary between different brands and specific beers within the hazy IPA style. Factors such as the specific recipe, brewing techniques, and ingredients used can all influence the final calorie count. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check the label or consult the brewery for accurate calorie information.
While hazy IPAs generally tend to be higher in calories compared to other beer styles, there are low-calorie and low-alcohol options available. It ultimately depends on the specific beer and its recipe. If you're watching your calorie intake, it's always a good idea to check the label or do some research to find a hazy IPA that aligns with your dietary preferences.