THC Drinks, A Rising Trend, But Can They Truly Replace Alcohol?

Cannabis-infused beverages gain momentum in the US, sparking debate on their potential as alcohol substitutes.

As state laws increasingly permit the sale of THC-infused beverages, a new contender in the alcohol alternative market is making waves. With states like Hawaii and Minnesota embracing this trend, these drinks are appearing in liquor stores and bars, but questions linger—can they truly replace alcohol or are they just a passing novelty?

The shift began with a 2018 federal farm bill that removed restrictions on hemp-derived products with low levels of delta-9 THC. Since then, states such as Texas and Connecticut have crafted regulations to sell THC drinks, while others, like California, grapple with inconsistent enforcement. Retail giants like Total Wine & More are now stocking these beverages nationwide.

While cannabis offers benefits such as reduced anxiety or better sleep, experts like Dr. Meenakshi Subbaraman from UC Berkeley note that THC drinks may not replicate alcohol’s social appeal. “Cannabis can substitute alcohol in certain cases, but it’s not ideal for those seeking a stimulating social experience,” she explains.

THC beverages face hurdles in consumer adoption, including delayed effects, high costs, and taste challenges. Companies like Brez are experimenting with additives like lion’s mane mushrooms to mimic alcohol’s energizing effects. Meanwhile, innovators like House of Saka invest heavily in removing alcohol from wine and balancing flavors with cannabis emulsifications.

The industry also contends with concerns like impaired driving and steep price points—six-packs often cost $30 or more. Despite these challenges, industry leaders believe changing cultural attitudes may pave the way for cannabis beverages to carve a lasting niche in the market.