Pabst Blue Ribbon is a traditional American lager that has stood the test of time for over a century. It’s brewed with a relatively simple combination of water, barley malt, yeast, corn syrup, and hops. This simplicity translates into a clean and drinkable beer with a mild hoppy aroma, light bitterness, and a malty finish. But behind that easygoing flavor is a moderate calorie count that drinkers should be aware of. With 144 calories in each 12-ounce can or bottle, PBR falls into the category of a standard beer rather than a light option.
In addition to the calorie count, PBR delivers about 12.8 grams of carbohydrates, which come primarily from the malt and adjuncts (corn syrup). It has zero grams of fat and zero grams of protein, which is common for most lagers. While beer does not generally provide much in terms of vitamins or minerals, it’s still important to recognize that these “empty” calories can add up quickly, especially if you’re drinking more than one or two at a time. PBR also has no added sugar, although trace amounts of sugar can result naturally during fermentation.
For individuals managing their diet or watching their intake of carbs and calories, PBR isn’t the lightest choice out there — but it also isn’t the heaviest. It provides a more full-bodied experience than most “lite” beers without jumping into high-calorie craft beer territory. Its 4.7% ABV means it contains slightly more alcohol than light lagers, which also contributes to its higher calorie content. As with any alcohol consumption, enjoying PBR in moderation is the key to balancing enjoyment with health.
To put PBR’s nutritional content into perspective, it’s helpful to compare it to some of the other popular beers on the market. Budweiser, often considered a peer to PBR, comes in at 145 calories and 10.6 grams of carbs per 12-ounce serving, making it nearly identical in calories but slightly lighter in carbs. Coors Light and Miller Lite, on the other hand, are marketed specifically as light beers and contain fewer calories and carbs — 102 calories and 5g carbs for Coors Light, and 96 calories and 3.2g carbs for Miller Lite. Meanwhile, Michelob Ultra, a favorite among low-carb drinkers, only has 95 calories and 2.6g carbs.
So where does PBR stand? It fits comfortably in the middle: more calories and carbs than a light beer, but less than many high-gravity craft brews that can range anywhere from 180 to 300 calories per serving. For someone who enjoys the traditional lager experience without going overboard on either flavor intensity or nutritional load, PBR offers a satisfying balance. It’s also often priced more affordably, which adds to its widespread appeal.
It’s worth noting that calorie content isn’t just about weight management — it can also influence how a beer fits into athletic or low-sugar lifestyles. Athletes or fitness-conscious consumers may prefer lower-carb and lower-alcohol options. However, for someone seeking the “classic American beer” experience, Pabst Blue Ribbon provides both a taste of tradition and a manageable calorie count.
A standard 12-ounce can of Pabst Blue Ribbon contains approximately 144 calories, primarily from its alcohol content and carbohydrates.
While not classified as a light beer, PBR's calorie count is moderate. However, with 12.8 grams of carbs, it may not fit strict low-carb diets. PBR Easy may be a better choice for those watching carbs more closely.
