Office worker Lee Mo (48) was momentarily taken aback while pouring soju for a new employee in their 20s at a year-end company dinner. This was because the young employee said, "I'll take a break with this drink" and picked up a cup of water instead of a soju glass. Looking around, it was noticeable that several young employees at other tables were also drinking cola, cider, or non-alcoholic beer instead of alcohol. Some of them alternated between drinking alcohol and soft drinks.
For some time now, such situations have become a familiar sight. The younger generation, who prefer not to engage in company dinners, tend to make an effort not to overindulge even if they do attend drinking gatherings. The practice of alternating between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, known as 'Zebra Striping', is one such strategy.
Recently, foreign media outlets such as Business Insider reported that "Generation Z is redefining drinking culture to eliminate hangovers," stating that "Zebra Striping has established itself as a new drinking culture among the younger generation." They added, "Zebra Striping has become a way for Generation Z, who value health, productivity, and well-being, to maintain social experiences without overindulging."
This trend is also reflected in the domestic and international food and beverage industry. Especially since 'Zebra Striping' is a term that first appeared overseas, the international food industry is responding more actively. The British media The Sun reported on the 6th, "The MZ generation tends to drink less alcohol compared to previous generations and is more likely to alternate between alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages," and that "various restaurants and bars are expanding related menus and conducting promotions to reflect the Zebra Striping trend." In particular, there is a growing trend of offering mocktails and non-alcoholic fruit cocktails that have little difference in taste when alternated with alcoholic beverages.
Zebra Striping is Effective in Preventing Overindulgence and Hangovers
By trying Zebra Striping, one can definitely reduce the amount of alcohol consumed by about half. In fact, several research papers related to drinking indicate that this method of drinking helps reduce alcohol consumption and control drinking speed. 'Damp drinking', which involves not completely cutting off alcohol intake but merely reducing the amount consumed, is a similar strategy.
By drinking water or non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks, one can prevent dehydration and avoid hangovers caused by electrolyte imbalances. However, it is important to note that many non-alcoholic beverages can be high in sugar content, which may lead to increased calories or blood sugar levels.
Reducing Alcohol Consumption Alone Can Benefit Health
Simply reducing alcohol consumption can significantly benefit health. A study conducted in 2024 on 20,011 binge drinkers by domestic researchers found that reducing alcohol intake to low or moderate levels can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 23%. Additionally, reducing alcohol consumption can decrease the risk of cancer and improve liver health and sleep quality.
Of course, the best way for health is to completely abstain from alcohol. Experts advise, "As long as one consumes even a small amount of alcohol, there is a risk of disease associated with it," and add, "If one finds themselves in a situation where they must drink, it is important to wisely control their drinking amount and speed according to what suits them."
