It's official - beer is a healthier alternative. To vodka.

The good people of Russia had, up until now, rightly classed beer as a food:

Until now anything containing less than 10% alcohol in Russia has been considered a foodstuff.

And it was marketed it not just as a foodstuff, but as a healthy alternative foodstuff:

Although vodka has long been the traditional tipple in Russia, beer has soared in popularity, being marketed as a healthier alternative to spirits.

However, the big, bad bureaucracy that is the Russian government has stepped in and created

..a bill that officially classifies beer as alcoholic.

Hmmm, I'm not so sure this changes much.

So there you have it - beer is a foodstuff and is a healthier alternative. Enjoy it as part of your daily diet.

Source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-14232970