Fremont Interurban IPA has earned a solid reputation among craft beer enthusiasts for its bold hop-forward profile and drinkable quality. Brewed by Fremont Brewing in Seattle, Washington, this India Pale Ale combines flavor intensity with a relatively moderate alcohol content. As more consumers become health-conscious and calorie-aware, questions surrounding the caloric content of beers like Fremont Interurban IPA are becoming increasingly common. Whether you’re counting macros or just want to know what you’re sipping, understanding the calorie content in craft beer is essential for making informed choices.
Overview of Fremont Interurban IPA
What Kind of Beer Is It?
Fremont Interurban IPA is a classic American India Pale Ale. It features a balanced blend of bitterness and citrusy aroma, achieved through the generous use of hops such as Amarillo, Centennial, and Chinook. The name Interurban pays homage to a historic Seattle streetcar line, representing the connection between traditional craftsmanship and modern beer-making techniques.
Flavor Profile
- Style: American IPA
- ABV (Alcohol by Volume): Approximately 6.2%
- IBU (International Bitterness Units): Around 80
- Notes: Pine, citrus, and floral hop characteristics with a malt backbone
This beer is known for being flavorful without overwhelming the palate. It is a go-to for IPA lovers who enjoy both balance and complexity in their beer.
Calories in Fremont Interurban IPA
Calorie Estimate Per Serving
While the exact calorie content of Fremont Interurban IPA is not typically listed on the can or official brewery website, we can estimate it based on the known formula for calculating calories in beer:
Calories = (ABV x 2.5) x Ounces of beer
Using this formula:
- ABV = 6.2%
- Serving size = 12 oz
- Calories = (6.2 x 2.5) x 12 = 186 calories (approximate)
For a 16 oz pint, the total would be closer to 248 calories. These values place Fremont Interurban IPA in the moderate-to-high calorie range compared to other craft beers, especially lighter lagers or low-alcohol ales.
Factors That Influence Calorie Count
Calories in beer primarily come from two components:
- Alcohol: Alcohol contains 7 calories per gram and contributes significantly to total calories.
- Residual Sugars: Not all sugars are fermented out during brewing. These residual carbs add to the calorie content.
Because Fremont Interurban IPA has a mid-to-high alcohol level and a malt base that supports the hop flavor, it naturally contains more calories than light beers.
Carbohydrates and Nutrition
Carb Content
While official nutritional information is not publicly listed, a standard IPA of similar profile may contain anywhere between 1318 grams of carbohydrates per 12 oz serving. Fremont Interurban IPA likely falls within this range due to its malt presence and full-bodied texture.
Other Nutritional Considerations
Craft beers are not typically fortified with vitamins or minerals, but some trace nutrients from the grain and yeast may be present. However, these are minimal and should not be relied upon for nutritional value. The primary dietary considerations with this beer are its alcohol content, calorie count, and carbs.
Comparison With Other Beers
Versus Light Beers
- Bud Light: ~110 calories per 12 oz
- Michelob Ultra: ~95 calories per 12 oz
- Fremont Interurban IPA: ~186 calories per 12 oz
Compared to these light lagers, Fremont Interurban IPA has nearly double the calories. This is primarily due to its higher alcohol content and richer flavor profile.
Versus Other IPAs
- Sierra Nevada Pale Ale (5.6% ABV): ~175 calories per 12 oz
- Lagunitas IPA (6.2% ABV): ~190 calories per 12 oz
- Fremont Interurban IPA (6.2% ABV): ~186 calories per 12 oz
In the IPA category, Fremont Interurban IPA holds its own in terms of calorie content. It offers comparable energy per serving without exceeding the average for this beer style.
Tips for Enjoying IPAs Mindfully
Watch Portion Sizes
Drinking a pint (16 oz) instead of a can (12 oz) can quickly increase your calorie intake. One pint of Fremont Interurban IPA could deliver close to 250 calories, which is equivalent to a small meal or a dessert.
Hydrate Between Drinks
Beer can lead to dehydration, especially due to its alcohol content. Drinking water between servings can help moderate consumption and support better hydration, especially during social events.
Balance With Food Choices
If you’re tracking your daily intake, it helps to balance the extra calories from beer with lighter food options. Consider pairing this IPA with grilled vegetables, lean proteins, or fresh salads to avoid excess calorie consumption.
Fremont Brewing’s Sustainability Efforts
Eco-Friendly Brewing
While discussing calories, it’s also worth noting that Fremont Brewing focuses on sustainability. They use locally sourced ingredients, energy-efficient brewing systems, and community-focused practices. Enjoying a Fremont beer means supporting a brand that values environmental responsibility.
Is It Worth the Calories?
For beer lovers who appreciate a well-crafted, balanced IPA, the calorie content of Fremont Interurban IPA is justifiable. It delivers complex hop flavor, a satisfying mouthfeel, and a touch of citrus and pine that many find appealing. If enjoyed in moderation, this beer fits well within an active and conscious lifestyle especially when you’re drinking for taste rather than quantity.
Fremont Interurban IPA calories land around 186 per 12 oz serving, making it a moderate-calorie choice among craft IPAs. While it may not qualify as a low-calorie beverage, it offers a rich, satisfying flavor that balances hoppy brightness with drinkable smoothness. For those who are mindful of their diet but still want to enjoy quality craft beer, Interurban IPA is a solid option when consumed in moderation. Understanding what you’re drinking helps make smarter choices and when it comes to this Seattle favorite, the flavor may be well worth the count.