Citation

van Hoof JJ, Roodbeen RTJ, Krokké J, Gosselt JF, Schelleman-Offermans K. J. Adolesc. Health 2015; 56(4): 468-470.

Affiliation

Nuchter, Centre for Research on Age Restrictions, Nijmegen, the Netherlands; Department of Health Promotion, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, the Netherlands.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2015, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.jadohealth.2014.11.025

PMID

25650111

Abstract

PURPOSE: Measuring vendors' compliance and possible change in compliance with the legal age limits on alcohol sales in 2011 and 2013.

METHODS: In 2011 and 2013, representative mystery shopping studies were conducted. In total, 2,737 underage mystery shopping alcohol purchase attempts were conducted both in off-premise (supermarkets, liquor stores, and take away restaurants) and on-premise (bars and sports bars) outlets as well as from alcohol home delivery services.

RESULTS: Average compliance increased significantly from 28.2% in 2011 to 46.5% in 2013, and asking proof of age (ID) also increased significantly from 43.9% in 2011 to 54.1% in 2013.

CONCLUSIONS: Both asking proof of age and, ultimately, compliance with the legal age limits increased significantly. Nevertheless, still 53.5% of the adolescents could purchase alcohol themselves, which makes alcohol largely available through the various premises.

Language: en