Beer can boost ‘spiritual or mental’ health, says Kirin president

June 20, 2026 - 08:09

The president of Japanese brewing giant Kirin has sparked conversation by suggesting that beer can have a positive effect on a person's mental and spiritual well-being. Takeshi Minakata, who leads the company, stated that alcohol "can be a good thing" because it "helps make people happy."

In a recent interview, Minakata argued that moderate consumption of beer should not be viewed solely through the lens of physical health risks. Instead, he emphasized the role alcohol plays in social bonding and relaxation. "It can be a good thing for spiritual or mental health," he said, pointing to the cultural and communal aspects of sharing a drink.

The comments come as the global beverage industry faces shifting consumer habits, with younger generations in many countries drinking less alcohol than their predecessors. Health trends have pushed many toward non-alcoholic options, putting pressure on traditional brewers. Minakata's remarks appear to be a direct challenge to that prevailing narrative, reframing beer as a tool for happiness rather than a product to be avoided.

While the statement has drawn attention, it also raises questions about balancing responsible drinking with the promotion of alcohol. Public health experts often warn that any health benefits of alcohol are outweighed by the risks of addiction, liver disease, and other issues. For now, Kirin's president is betting that the simple joy of a cold beer is a powerful enough argument to keep people coming back.