What is a standard drink in Ireland?
The HSE says one Irish standard drink contains 10 grams of pure alcohol. Its examples include a half pint of beer, stout, or cider at 4.5% ABV, a 100 ml glass of wine at 12.5% ABV, and a 35.5 ml spirit measure at 40% ABV.
HSE weekly lower-risk guidance
The HSE currently states lower-risk weekly guidance of no more than 11 standard drinks for women and 17 for men, spread across the week, with 2–3 alcohol-free days and no more than 6 drinks on one occasion. The page notes its evidence is under review in 2026, so use the HSE source for current wording.
Calculate from the label
Multiply volume in ml by ABV as a decimal and by 0.789 to estimate pure alcohol in grams. Divide by 10 for an Irish standard-drink estimate. Use the Ireland standard-drinks calculator for a serving or standard drinks per container for a full bottle or can.
Alcohol and safety
If alcohol is involved, arrange a sober way home before drinking. Seek local emergency help if someone is unconscious, has difficulty breathing, has seizures, or repeatedly vomits. For a country comparison, see alcohol units by country.