Russia Classifies Beer As Alcoholic – WTF

Wait...Before yesterday, beer in Russia was not considered an alcoholic beverage? According to the BBC, anything containing less than 10% alcohol was considered "foodstuff". WTF?!? Just to give you an indication, an average beer in America is roughly 3-6%. Why wasn't I informed of this before?? I would have visited Russia years ago! More story after the jump!

"The move, signed into law on Wednesday, will allow ministers to control the sale of beer in the same way that spirits are controlled.

Russian alcohol consumption is already twice the critical level set by the World Health Organization.

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

Over the past decade, beer sales in Russia have risen more than 40% while vodka sales have fallen by nearly 30%.

Correspondents say it is common to see people swigging beer in the street and in parks as if they are drinking soft drinks.

It is not restricted to certain stores and is sold around the clock."

Read the whole story from the BBC