Drivers warned they can break drink-drive limits even if they don't drink on Christmas Day

Drivers can breach drink-drive limits by eating Christmas food (Image: Getty)

Motorists could break strict drink-drive rules despite not having a drop of alcohol this Christmas. 

Road users may not be aware that rich ‘boozy food’ contains high amounts of alcohol, which could send drivers over the drink-drive threshold. 

Britons would have to eat a lot to get themselves over the limit only by eating food but it is theoretically possible for those with a big appetite over the holidays. 

In the UK, the drink-drive limit stands at 80 mg of alcohol per 100ml blood or 35 mcg of alcohol per 100ml breath.

Usually, this is around three to four units of alcohol, which can be achieved through tasty treats alone. 

Several servings of Christmas cake with brandy could be a danger to drivers (Image: Getty)

According to an analysis from All Car Leasing, eating just 5.5 servings of Christmas cake could put motorists over the threshold. 

The limit would also be passed if road users digested 850 alcohol-filled chocolates or 58 packers of olives. 

Meanwhile, only four servings of peppercorn sauce or just one whole sherry trifle could see motorists in trouble. 

However, a Christmas cake soaked in brandy is more dangerous, with just one and a half servings likely to equal one unit of alcohol.

Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of Quotezone.co.uk urged road users to consider what they are eating before getting behind the wheel. 

He previously said: “There is a worrying disbelief that alcohol in food doesn’t count and that it just burns off while it’s cooking, which is not always the case.

“Some festive treats contain over 30 per cent ABV - alcohol-free products are currently defined in England as products with an ABV rating not exceeding 0.05%.

“So motorists should be on the lookout this festive season for booze-filled desserts and sweet treats, that could unknowingly put drivers over the drink-drive limit, especially when paired with an alcoholic beverage.”

But, the real danger is when motorists mix alcohol with ‘boozy food’ as it will reduce the typical allowances. 

Just one pint of beer combined with one and a half servings of Christmas cake could send motorists into the red. 

Meanwhile, one glass of wine with a meal served with a boozy Christmas meal is also likely to be a concern. 

Ash Young, Founder of CarMats.co.uk, commented: "Our research reveals a crucial factor often overlooked during the festive season. 

“While it's tempting to indulge in traditional dishes, it's equally important to consider the hidden alcohol content. We urge everyone to prioritise safety and be aware that even a seemingly harmless meal could impact your ability to drive safely.”