Is Whisky Vegetarian? What You Should Know About Alcohol During Shravan

As the sacred month of Shravan begins, many households across India embrace a more sattvic lifestyle—abstaining from meat, eggs, and in many cases, alcohol. But while the link between religious fasting and avoiding meat is well established, there’s often a lingering doubt that surfaces:

“Is alcohol, like whisky or wine, considered non-vegetarian?”

For many people, especially those raised in traditional or religious families, alcohol is automatically assumed to be non-veg. During holy months like Shravan or festivals like Navratri, it’s not uncommon to see people giving up alcohol completely—not just for spiritual reasons, but based on the belief that it contains non-vegetarian elements. But how accurate is that belief?

Is Whisky Actually Vegetarian?

According to Sonal C. Holland, India’s first Master of Wine, whisky is completely vegetarian, and in most cases, also vegan-friendly. That’s because whisky is made using plant-based ingredients like barley, corn, and rye. These grains are fermented with yeast and water, then distilled and aged in wooden barrels—without any trace of animal-based substances involved in the process.

So if you’re wondering whether whisky is acceptable during Shravan from a vegetarian standpoint, the answer is yes—it is technically veg. There are no hidden animal products used in its creation.

What About Wine and Beer?

This is where things get a bit more complex.

Unlike whisky, some wines and beers may use animal-derived substances during the filtration or fining process. These substances include:

Egg whites

Gelatin

Isinglass (a substance derived from fish bladders)

These agents help clarify the beverage, making it look clearer and more appealing. Because of their presence—even if only used in small amounts—such drinks are often classified as non-vegetarian, especially by those who follow a strict vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

But here’s the catch—not all wines or beers are made this way.

Today, many producers label their beverages as “vegan-friendly” or “suitable for vegetarians”, which means no animal-based agents are used in the process. So, if you’re someone who wants to avoid non-veg items during Shravan, it’s worth checking the label or the brand’s official information.

How to Know if an Alcoholic Drink is Veg or Non-Veg?

If you’re unsure about whether a drink qualifies as vegetarian, here are a few tips:

Check the bottle label for terms like “vegan-friendly” or “vegetarian”.

Look into the brand’s filtration or clarification method.

Many international and premium brands today are transparent about their processes and may even have certifications listed.

Doing a little research can help you make informed decisions without relying on assumptions or hearsay.

So, Should You Drink During Shravan?

Deciding whether to consume alcohol during Shravan is a personal and spiritual choice. Many people give it up out of devotion, as part of a larger vow of simplicity and discipline. Others may avoid it because of the belief that alcohol is non-vegetarian. But if your decision is based purely on that common misconception, it’s worth knowing that not all alcohol falls into the non-veg category.

Whisky, for example, is vegetarian and vegan in most cases. And while some wines and beers might involve animal-based agents during production, many others don’t. That said, alcohol consumption has health implications, and avoiding it during Shravan—or in general—can be a wise and wholesome choice for both body and mind.