Narragansett 96 Extra Light Beer 12 Oz Tab Top Can

Narragansett 96 Extra Light Can

During the rise of the low-calorie beer boom in the 1970s, regional and national brewers rushed to offer lighter alternatives to compete in an evolving marketplace. Produced by Falstaff Brewing Corporation at its Cranston, Rhode Island facility, Narragansett 96 Extra Light Beer was created specifically for this segment.

The bold numeral "96" on the label directly advertised the product's 96-calorie count, positioned as having one-third fewer calories than traditional lager. At the time, Falstaff operated the historic Cranston plant after acquiring the Narragansett brand, utilizing the facility to supply New England with both legacy brews and new formulations tailored to emerging market trends.

For breweriana collectors, the can is recognized for its bold, era-defining typographic layout that places the calorie count front and center rather than the traditional script logo. Variations exist across production runs, with cans manufactured in both all-aluminum and steel compositions featuring subtle differences in mandatory regulatory text and lid stamps originating from the Cranston brewery. It represents a distinct chapter in Rhode Island brewing history under Falstaff's stewardship.