Athletic Brewing Reintroduces Aftershift for Mental Health Awareness Month
Athletic Brewing Company, acclaimed as America's largest dedicated non-alcoholic brewer, has exciting news for craft beer enthusiasts and mental health advocates alike. In a heartwarming revival, the company is bringing back
Aftershift, a limited-edition brew designed to raise awareness about mental health. This collaboration joins forces with five prestigious chefs to make a significant impact in the food and beverage industry.
Initially launched in 2025 as an online exclusive, Aftershift was well-received for both its exquisite flavor profile and its meaningful mission. As Mental Health Awareness Month unfolds this May, Athletic Brewing is expanding Aftershift's distribution to reach even more supporters in key markets where these culinary experts work. The chefs involved in this collaboration include renowned personalities like Chris Cosentino, Chris Shepherd, David Chang, Ashley Christensen, and Sarah Grueneberg.
The Essence of Aftershift
Aftershift is not just a beverage; it's a celebration of the resilience and dedication found within the hospitality industry. The beer pours a beautiful pale golden hue, showcasing bright notes of lime leaf and yuzu that tantalize the palate. With a light body and crisp finish, this zesty session brew offers a subtle balance of tartness and bitterness that makes it incredibly refreshing. It's specifically designed to provide a delightful post-shift reward for hospitality workers, offering them a flavorful option without the alcohol.
The taste of Aftershift perfectly complements a variety of dishes — from salty snacks and tapas to raw oysters and wood-fired pizza, making it the ideal companion for any meal. Its purpose extends far beyond its flavor, aiming to support workers who often deal with the high-pressure demands of kitchen environments.
Supporting Mental Health in the Hospitality Industry
A key aspect of Aftershift's return is its commitment to mental health awareness. This year, Athletic Brewing will allocate
$50,000 of the profits generated from Aftershift to the
Southern Smoke Foundation. This nonprofit organization, founded by Chef Chris Shepherd, provides no-cost mental health services and emergency relief funds to food and beverage workers across the nation. The collaboration emphasizes the urgent need for mental health support in the industry, further spotlighting the challenges many hospitality employees face.
Chris Shepherd shared his thoughts on the collaboration, stating, "The Southern Smoke Foundation is proud to once again join forces with Athletic and this group of amazing chefs. The need for mental health support in our industry hasn't changed, and neither has our commitment to showing up." Their joint efforts strive to deliver vital resources to those who need them the most, promoting wellbeing in a high-octane industry.
Availability and Purchase Options
For fans eager to get their hands on Aftershift, the beer is now available for purchase on
Athletic Brewing's website and will also be sold in select local retailers across major cities like
Chicago,
Houston,
Los Angeles,
New York City,
Raleigh, and
San Francisco. However, availability is while supplies last, so early birds should seize the chance to enjoy this limited-edition brew!
Launched in 2018, Athletic Brewing has continually innovated the non-alcoholic beer space, becoming the most awarded brewer in this category over the last decade. Their commitment to creating flavorful beers has resonated with consumers looking for alternatives that don't compromise on taste.
Brew Details
- - Style: Zesty Session
- - Ingredients: Water, Malted Barley, Hops, Lime Leaf, Yuzu, Wheat, Yeast
- - Nutritional Information: Each 12-oz can contains less than 0.5% ABV, 60 calories, 12g of carbs, 0g protein, and 0g fat.
- - Flavor Notes: Crisp, light-bodied brew with lime leaf and yuzu notes
- - Availability: Limited release online and select retailers while supplies last
In conclusion, Aftershift is more than just a seasonal beer; it embodies a message of resilience, community, and the importance of mental health awareness in an industry that often overlooks these critical aspects. Grab your Aftershift today, and join in supporting this noble cause while enjoying a refreshing and flavorful brew.