It wasn’t so long ago that if you weren’t drinking alcohol, your best bet for a fun drink at a bar or house party was a Shirley Temple. And no hate to Shirley, but the options were surely limited. (See what we did there?)
Now, we’ve got a plethora of solid non-alcoholic drink options: NA wine, NA beer and even NA spirits line shelves and bar carts. If your vibe is fun with no buzz, you’re in good hands.
...but the adult beverage industry took it a step further. What if you still wanted a buzz from your drink, just a different kind of buzz? One with no alcohol? One with something like...
And thus, THC-infused beverages were born.
Short for tetrahydrocannabinol, THC is the chemical in cannabis. THC beverages are drinks that have been infused with hemp-derived THC in varying amounts and produce a buzz when consumed.
“But wait,” you say, “If these drinks are recreational, and THC is derived from hemp, which is derived from marijuana, and recreational marijuana is illegal in Florida...doesn’t that make these drinks illegal?”
No indeed, dear reader! We’ll explain why.
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 no more than 0.3% by dry weight.
While THC is the compound responsible for marijuana’s psychoactive effects, 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.
For that reason, those looking for lighter social alternatives have been flocking to try THC beverages. They’re delicious, light, good-vibe bevs!
If you’re looking to give THC beverages a whirl, you’re in the right place.
Despite being a relatively new beverage category, there’s already a variety of THC beverages on the market: different brands, recipes, dosages, flavors and more. Whether you’re into seltzers, spritzes, sodas, tonics or mocktails, there’s a THC drink to suit your tastebuds.
The most important thing to keep in mind as you’re selecting your first THC beverage is the dosage. Beginners should start low and slow, meaning you should try something between the 2-5 mg range (don’t spring for the 10 mg cans on your first go) and sip slowly to see how your body reacts to it. Most consumers feel the effects after 15-45 minutes, which is faster than edibles but slower than smoking. The buzz should last for 1-3 hours, similar to a glass of wine or beer.
If you’re interested in learning more about getting started with THC beverages, check out our complete guide to THC-infused drinks here.
As with any substance, the effects, onset time and duration depend heavily on the individual consumer’s tolerance, body chemistry and metabolism. That’s why “low and slow” is the name of the game. No need to rush!
“This is the future!”
More than once guests used this exact phrase in their reviews of THC beverages on our site.
We have to agree! THC beverages taste good and give many consumers a buzz without the alcohol. Honestly, we wouldn’t be surprised if THC beverages became the new tequila in terms of category variety and celebrity endorsements in 2026 and beyond.
The next generation of drinkers has spoken loud and clear: they want alternative beverage options with a focus on moderate and mindful consumption. It makes sense that THC drinks appeal to consumers looking for an alternative way to unwind and socialize.
So you heard it here first: THC beverages are the ones to watch (and drink, of course) in the new year.
"We are extremely bullish for the category in the short term as sales continue to grow month over month. Brand trends are a little tricky as this is still an exploratory category and sales are driven by pricing and promotions. The formats we see in the category with the most success are the 10mg 4pks, 750mLs and shots. Our guests are looking for value within the category and most of the promotions are built around these formats. Long term, we are working with our state legislators, as well as our national partners, to advocate that low dose THC beverage remain available safely to our guests."
- Brian Thompson, Director of Beer, THC and Mixers
THC beverages are drinks infused with hemp-derived THC, offering a mild, controlled “buzz” without alcohol. They come in seltzers, tonics, mocktails and more.
Most hemp-derived THC beverages are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill as long as they meet delta-9 THC limits. However, regulations vary by state, so consumers should always check their local laws.
Most people feel effects within 15–45 minutes, depending on metabolism, dosage and whether they’ve eaten recently. This is typically faster than edibles.
Drinks can range from 2 mg (very mild) to 10 mg+ (stronger for experienced consumers). First-timers should start low and pace themselves.
Mixing is not recommended. Combining THC and alcohol can intensify effects in unpredictable ways.
Most THC beverages last 1-3 hours, but this varies by dose, tolerance and product type.
THC drinks may create a euphoric or uplifting effect, while CBD drinks are non-intoxicating and meant for relaxation without a buzz.
Yes, as long as consumers choose low-dose options (2–5 mg) and sip slowly. Labels and dosing guidance are important.
Most are formulated to taste like flavored seltzer, lemonade or cocktails. Some have a subtle herbal note, depending on the brand.
Many are low-calorie or zero-calorie, similar to some hard seltzers, though this varies by brand. As always, check the labels to find out.
Yes. Even hemp-derived THC can trigger a positive result.
For many, yes! THC beverage consumers choose them as a “social but lighter” alternative, offering a buzz without alcohol’s calories.
Beginners often start with half a can or one low-dose drink, then wait 30-60 minutes before having more.
No. Driving under the influence of THC is illegal and unsafe. Consumers should plan a sober ride.
Yes. Many are delta-9 (the closest to traditional cannabis), while others use delta-8 or blends. The label will specify.
Not quite ready to go alcohol-free, but still want to watch what you drink? Check out our guide to the best light and low-calorie sips below.
