Drinkers will have even less excuse for getting a beer belly or putting on weight under government plans that would display the calorie content of beer, wine and spirits on bottles and cans.
The health minister, Anna Soubry, confirmed that discussions about including calorie content on labels have been held with the alcohol industry.
She said the government was committed to improving labelling so drinkers, particularly pregnant women, were better informed about the health risks associated with alcohol and guidance on consumption.
A large glass of wine contains about 200 calories while a pint of 5% strength beer contains 215 calories.
Soubry, responding to a parliamentary question, said: "The government is committed to improving the labelling of alcoholic drinks, which would help make people more aware of how much alcohol they are drinking, what the guidelines are and what the risks are, including for those who are pregnant.
"The department has discussed the possible inclusion of calorie content on labels with representatives of the alcohol industry on a number of occasions."
