10% of Russians plan to give up beer because it is going to be equated with strong alcohol. 17% of Russians

      are going to buy less beer than before, and 65% of Russians are going to keep their usual habits without any changes. These are the results of a poll by the publication of "Romir" site that interviewed about 1500 people from different Russian cities for their attitude to beer.

      

      8% of poll's responders haven't made up their mind about that question yet. 

      Federal law of Government's control of manufactures and alcohol's turnover, which equated beer with strong alcohol, was signed by the President Dmitry Medvedev on the 20th of July. The law has come into force on the 22nd of July, though some limitations will be in force later - for example, individual entrepreneurs who usually own stalls can sell bear in it till the 1st of January 2013. 

      

      According to research, women are more affected by changes in the law. There are more women among respondents who are ready to give up beer (18%) than men (13%). 69% of men are going to keep their habits in beer drinking, and 61% of women are ready to follow their lead.

      

      24% of respondents at the age of 18-24 plan to drink less beer. By comparison, only 16% of respondents at the age of 25-30 have the same plans.

      

      Currently almost 80% of respondents drink beer, and 24% of them do it 2-3 times a week. 19% - once a week. Russians usually drink beer at home - with family or friends (61%). 26% drink beer in the country or on trips and only 7% - at bars and restaurants. 

      

      The researches hope that the new law will increase the people's responsibility for the alcohol use. Many people don't take seriously the danger low-alcohol drinks, though it can be the cause of alcoholism just as drinking strong alcohol. It's expected that prohibition against selling beer at night time and drinking in public areas will help to lower the amount of young alcoholics and help people to lead a healthier lifestyle.  

Source: RIA News