Gablinger's Beer 12 Oz Tab Top Can

Pioneer of the Light Beer Revolution

The Can

This 12-ounce straight steel tab top container represents one of the most historically significant packaging designs in modern brewing history. The front display prominently highlights the low-calorie nature of the brew with the top banner "CONTAINS 99 CALORIES / 1/3 LESS THAN OUR REGULAR BEERS," centered around an oval frame displaying the slogan "DOESN'T FILL YOU UP" alongside stalks of barley. The central oval is printed in a distinct darker cream tone. The bottom rim cites "BREWED UNDER U.S. PATENT NO. 3,379,534," which references the patented biochemical process used to remove residual carbohydrates from the beer.

The Brand

Introduced in the late 1960s by Rheingold Breweries, Gablinger's is widely recognized as the original commercial reduced-calorie light beer. The recipe originated with Swiss researcher Dr. Hersch Gablinger, whose portrait is prominently illustrated within the central medallion. Rheingold acquired his method of using amyloglucosidase enzymes to break down unfermented starches and dextrins. Marketed with the promise that it would not produce a heavy, bloated feeling, the brand struggled to find footing among consumers who resisted diet-oriented drinks. Although Gablinger's failed to achieve sustained commercial success, its technological formulation directly paved the way for the eventual boom of mainstream light beers in the 1970s.

The Brewery

This can was produced under the Forrest Brewing Company name in New Bedford, Massachusetts. The facility itself had deep local roots, initially established in the late 19th century as B. Dawson & Son, which grew into Dawson's Brewery following the repeal of Prohibition to become one of the prominent operations in New England. In 1967, the New Bedford plant was acquired by Rheingold Breweries, which utilized both the parent firm's corporate name and affiliate monikers—including Forrest Brewing—to distribute products across its regional footprint. The plant operated through the challenging consolidation era of the 1970s before permanently shuttering in 1977.

Collecting Context

For breweriana collectors, Gablinger's cans are essential artifacts marking the birth of the low-calorie beer market. Collectors actively seek out variations across the brand's run, paying close attention to slight production differences, contrasting background cream shades in the central portrait, and brewery location line imprints.