There is a fresh addition on the adult beverage block that is rapidly rising in popularity—THC-infused drinks. With the growth of THC and CBD-infused products like drops, creams, gummies and more, it’s no surprise that hemp-derived drinks have hit wine and spirits stores as well, as an adult beverage alternative.
Approaching a THC-infused product for consumption can seem intimidating at first, but we’re here to break down everything you need to know about THC beverages. Just like your favorite pour of beer, wine or a ready-to-drink cocktail, these drinks are delicious and give you a comfortable buzz (with responsible consumption, of course).
Before we go any further, let’s be clear, we’re focusing on the delta-9 (D9) THC that’s derived from hemp only.
Short for tetrahydrocannabinol, THC is the chemical in cannabis. Hemp is defined as a cannabis plant that contains 0.3 percent or less THC. The THC is responsible for the plant's psychoactive effects. There is less THC in hemp than marijuana. Hemp-derived products typically don't contain enough THC to create the “high” traditionally associated with marijuana. However, it’s been found that in low doses, THC can give people a comfortable buzz, similar to what you feel after a glass of wine or beer.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is another cannabinoid found in cannabis, but unlike THC, CBD does not have any psychoactive effects and therefore cannot get you “high.”
THC beverages are drinks that have been infused with hemp-derived THC in varying amounts (be sure to check the dosage on the product) and produce a buzz when consumed.
Under the 2018 Federal Farm Bill, hemp and hemp-derived compounds, including CBD and hemp-derived THC, were federally legalized. The bill defines hemp as any part of the cannabis plant with a delta-9 (D9) THC concentration of not more than 0.3% by dry weight. Marijuana-derived D9 THC, however, is NOT legal, only hemp-derived D9 THC.
The only difference is the origin of the THC. The potency and effect will be the same. Hemp is simply a cannabis plant that is grown for agricultural products like textiles, seeds and oils and is legal for consumption in measured doses. But D9 is D9 and THC is THC, regardless of where it comes from.
Yes! Hemp-derived cannabis products are legal in Florida as long as they contain 0.3% D9 THC or less on a dry weight basis.1 So, every THC beverage you see on our shelves is legal to drink.
Yes, there is a buzz effect. Just like alcohol, THC is an intoxicating substance and should be consumed responsibly.
This varies based on consumption and the size of the person. Most THC drinks result in a gentle buzz anywhere between 15-30 minutes. The effects typically start to dissipate after approximately 60-90 minutes.
Yes, you must be 21+ to purchase and consume THC beverages, just like alcoholic beverages.
Starting low and slow is the key to THC beverage consumption. Just like you need to test your limits with ABV, you need to test your limits with THC. Start with a low-dose THC beverage, such as a 2mg product, and see how it makes you feel. Then, gradually, you can try a 3mg, 5mg or 10mg product. We DO NOT recommend starting with a 10mg product.
In general, a low-dose THC beverage is a good place to start and will create a gentle buzz similar to a single beer, glass of wine or one shot (1.5oz) of spirits. Just keep in mind that THC, just like alcohol, affects everyone a little differently, so always start LOW AND SLOW.
Keep scrolling for some of the tasty, good buzz-inducing 2mg, 3mg, 5mg and 10mg products we offer. Cheers and happy exploring!
Source: Cannabis Beverage Association
