Russia taps beer as booze

Beer is to be classified as alcohol for the first time in Russia as the country tries to get to grips with a chronic alcoholism problem.

Until now, beer was classified as a foodstuff.

But a new law changed that as part of a crackdown on alcohol advertising and nighttime booze sales.

The new law would also restrict the size of alcohol servings.

Vodka remains Russia’s most popular drink, but beer sales have tripled in the last 15 years.