Eleven South Australian nursing homes have banned social groups from selling alcohol at their retirement facilities.

The homes, run by Lifestyle SA, have banned alcohol because it believes the social groups are acting as commercial catering businesses.

Residents in homes – many of whom enjoy the social committee's 'happy hour' – see the move as an attack on their freedom.

Lifestyle SA has banned alcohol because it believes the social groups are acting as commercial catering businesses. (Lifestyle SA)

Residents aren't happy, calling the move an attack on their freedom. (Lifestyle SA)

"Let's call it the unhappy hour now," one resident quipped.

"A few frothies are very important."

The SA minister for Health and Well being has also criticised the move. (Lifestyle SA)

The move has also been criticised by South Australia's minister for Health and Wellbeing, Stephen Wade.