The THC drink market is booming and rapidly evolving. While there are large national brands in the space (and more on the way), the majority of brewers today are much smaller businesses who have a passion for cannabis and are crafting with unique twists on the concept of including thc into their beverages.
Here are a few of the differentiators between the various THC drinks being sold today:
Type of THC
- Delta-9 THC (Hemp-Derived): Offers a classic cannabis experience but sourced from federally legal hemp.
- Delta-8 THC: Milder and often described as more relaxing or body-focused.
- THC/CBD Ratios: Many drinks include both for a more balanced effect—CBD can mellow the high and add therapeutic benefits.
Onset Time
There’s debate and uncertainty around whether the “fast-acting” technologies make a meaningful difference in the timing of the effects and whether it’s worth the increased costs that they often carry. Nonetheless, here is some additional context on how companies typically describe their onset time.
- Fast-Acting (Nano-Emulsified THC): These drinks typically take effect in 10–20 minutes due to smaller, water-soluble THC particles.
- Traditional Onset: Some beverages may take 30–90 minutes, especially those without nano-emulsification.
Dosage & Potency Varieties
- Low-Dose (2–5mg THC): Designed for social use or beginners.
- Moderate Dose (5–10mg THC): Offers a balanced effect—mild euphoria and relaxation.
- High-Dose (20–100mg+ THC): Intended for experienced users or those seeking stronger effects.
Flavor Profiles & Functional Ingredients
- Familiar Flavors: Lemon-lime, cola, root beer, orange, and berry blends, soda water.
- Botanical and Herbal Blends: Some beverages include ginger, hibiscus, or lavender for added complexity.
- Functional Add-Ins: Ingredients like caffeine, L-theanine, or electrolytes enhance the experience and add wellness appeal. Some brands are also including Lions Mane in their products, which is a form of mushroom.
What’s the Occasion?
- Social Tonic: Light, sessionable drinks that mimic the experience of sipping a hard seltzer or cocktail—without the hangover.
- Wellness-Oriented: Focused on relaxation, mood, or recovery—often paired with CBD and natural ingredients.
- Hearty Fun: Meant to be consumed in smaller amounts or over longer periods due to high THC content.
If you’re intrigued by the wide and expanding list of thc drink options, it’s quite easy to order them (in most states) today. Certain local liquor stores may carry them as well.