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Table of Contents
- What Are THC Drinks?
- Are THC Drinks Legal?
- How Cannabis Drinks Work in the Body
- Dosage Guide for THC Beverages
- What Do THC Drinks Feel Like?
- Best Ways to Enjoy Cannabis Drinks
- Storage and Shelf Life of THC Beverages
- Buying and Packaging Tips
- Final Thoughts on THC-Infused Drinks
Key Takeaways
- THC drinks offer a mild, social buzz (and they’re alcohol free).
- Effects usually begin within 10 to 30 minutes and last 2 to 4 hours, though this can vary slightly.
- Start with a low-dose option of up to 5 milligrams and sip slowly.
- Always check state laws before buying—even federally compliant drinks may not be permitted where you live.
- Opt for trusted, lab-tested brands like Cornbread Hemp for quality and consistency.
THC drinks are the latest, greatest way to unwind in social settings—and are increasingly stepping in as an appealing alternative to alcohol. These cannabis-infused beverages contain tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychoactive compound that creates the signature “high” long associated with marijuana. But these drinks are delivering mellow, controlled effects that work for cannabis newbies and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Wondering how that works? In this complete guide to THC drinks, we’re walking you through the benefits, dosage, effects, and more.
What Are THC Drinks?
You can probably puzzle this out, since the clue is in the name. THC drinks are made with THC, and you may have heard them described as cannabis drinks or cannabis-infused beverages. THC, as we’ve covered, is the cannabinoid primarily responsible for those euphoric effects that make us feel happy, deeply relaxed, or social. The key to a positive experience with THC is dosing appropriately, and well-crafted THC drinks deliver.
Unlike alcohol, cannabis beverages aren’t about heavy intoxication. Instead, the goal is a lighter, more controlled buzz that’s heavy on the relaxation. That’s why most THC drinks, Cornbread Hemp THC Seltzers included, are low-dose. Our version has 5 milligrams of pure THC per serving. Again, the idea is a mellow, enjoyable buzz.
How THC drinks are made
It’s actually an interesting process. Once you have your cannabis extract—Cornbread Hemp exclusively uses Bluegrass Basin Hemp™ and organic sugarcane ethanol to make our Flower-Only™ hemp extract—you have to make it compatible with water.
THC is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it doesn’t like to mix with water, so most brands use nanoemulsion technology to break it down into teeny tiny particles that are actually suspended in liquids. It makes for a seamless way of blending THC into beverages. Plus, it’s the secret behind the quick onset of effects that THC beverages offer (more on that later).
Types of THC beverages (sparkling, still, mocktail-style)
Often designed to be fizzy and refreshing, THC drinks come in a pretty wide range of flavors and include teas, seltzers, lemonades, and more. The most popular options are the sparkling seltzer variety. These cannabis beverages are carbonated and usually fruit-forward, so they’re similar in taste and feel to hard seltzers or sparkling water (of course, they’re alcohol-free).
Not a fan of the fizz? Still THC beverages include juices, lemonades, and teas. They’re a bubble-free way to enjoy an infused drink.
Fans of more complex flavors may appreciate THC drinks that are formulated to mimic craft cocktails. They usually combine THC with botanical extracts and natural flavors to create options like infused margaritas or herbal spritzes for a more elevated experience.
Regardless of how they’re made, most THC drinks share a similar low dose of 2.5 to 5 milligrams of THC per serving.
THC drinks vs edibles vs tinctures
THC drinks, edibles, and tinctures are all ingested, but they work differently in the body. Technically, THC beverages are edibles, but the nanoemulsion technology we covered above means that those teensy THC particles can actually be absorbed in the lining of the mouth and stomach from your first sip on. That’s why effects are typically noticeable within the first 10 to 30 minutes, making THC beverages really fast-acting.
It’s much quicker than traditional edibles, like gummies, which have to be digested first. The THC is then metabolized in the liver, where first-pass metabolism converts it into a more potent compound, 11-hydroxy-THC. The whole thing can take upwards of two hours before you start to feel anything.
As for tinctures, they’re often administered sublingually, or beneath the tongue. When you hold these oil-based extracts under your tongue for half a minute to a minute, the THC can enter the bloodstream pretty quickly. Effects are generally noticeable within 15 to 45 minutes.
Are THC Drinks Legal?
THC drinks can be legal, but the details are a little complicated. It mostly comes down to where you live and where the THC comes from. Let’s take a closer look.
Federal legality of hemp-derived THC drinks
From a federal standpoint, the legality of THC drinks is all thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill (1). If a drink is made with hemp extract—not marijuana—and contains no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight, then it’s federally compliant. But while that makes it legal in the eyes of the federal government, individual states also get their say. That’s where things get a little more complex.
State-by-state differences
Depending on where you live, a federally-compliant THC drink may still be illegal. On the other hand, marijuana-derived THC drinks with high THC levels may be available with no issues. That’s because different states have different laws about cannabis, and the legal landscape is ever-evolving. Some states are more permissive, and others take a far stricter approach. Bottom line? Before you buy THC-infused drinks online, make sure they’re legal in your state.
Age restrictions and purchase rules
In most states where you’re permitted to buy THC drinks or any cannabis product, you’ll need to be 21 to do it. Some states also have laws that limit how much THC can be purchased at one time and where it can legally be consumed.
How Cannabis Drinks Work in the Body
The THC in cannabis drinks works just like it does in other cannabis products, by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It’s pretty straightforward: start sipping that THC seltzer, and the THC is absorbed in your mouth and stomach. Next, it binds to CB1 receptors in the ECS, and pretty soon, you’re feeling calm, relaxed, or downright euphoric. Just a reminder that individual experiences can and do vary, as everyone reacts differently based on dosing and personal factors.
When do THC drinks kick in?
Fast! Effects from Cornbread Hemp THC seltzers are generally noticeable in 10 to 15 minutes after your first sip. That’s one reason these things are so darn popular. Still, you should be mindful of sipping slowly, starting with a low-dose beverage (up to 5 milligrams of THC is best), and allowing plenty of time to pass before deciding whether to go back for another serving. Effects usually build gradually, and the overall experience is much more controllable when you pay attention and pace yourself.
How long do the effects typically last?
This is also personal, but effects from THC drinks usually last two to four hours. It’s a shorter experience than what you’d expect from a traditional edible, but that’s because of how it’s metabolized. Most people find the effects from THC beverages to be a little cleaner and better balanced, without the heavy body sensations often associated with edibles (especially in higher doses).
Do THC drinks work on a full stomach?
THC drinks do work if you’ve recently eaten a large meal, but absorption will be slightly slower. But a little snack can actually help ease the intensity of THC if it’s a new cannabinoid for you, so it’s not a bad idea to pair your infused beverage with something light. Remember that staying hydrated also matters, so keep the water handy as well.
Dosage Guide for THC Beverages
Dosing appropriately can make or break your experience with THC in any form, beverages included. And here’s the secret: with THC, less is almost always more. Too much THC, even in cannabis beverages, sets you up for a bad experience.
What’s a low dose vs a high dose?
Low doses of THC are generally in the 2.5 to 5 milligram range. That’s a great place for beginners to start, even if you’re familiar with THC in other formats.
A high dose is generally 15 to 20 milligrams and up, which is better suited to those who are very familiar with the effects of THC. The golden rule of cannabis consumption is to start low and go slow, so learn it and follow it. It’s the simplest way of gauging your personal reaction for the best possible experience.
Microdosing with THC drinks
With a little effort, you can microdose with THC drinks. Microdosing describes taking very small doses of THC, usually more than once in the same day, to enjoy the benefits of THC and minimize the potential for any negative effects. It’s a bit of a trial-and-error thing, since everyone is different, which means the most effective minimum dose of THC will likewise vary a little.
For most people, microdosing 2.5 milligrams of THC or less is a good starting point. Cannabis drinks make it pretty easy since they offer precise dosing and they're easy to measure. In most cases, you’ll probably sip half a can and save the rest for later.
How to start if you’re new to THC
This is simple—follow the golden rule! Start low and go slow to learn exactly how you respond to THC. There are several factors at work here, so you really need to feel this out to zero in on your personal perfect dose. Remember that your surroundings play a role, too, so indulge somewhere familiar where you feel safe and comfortable.
Can you split or sip a THC drink?
Of course! THC beverages are low-dose and fast-acting, so you can sip slowly and stop when you’re experiencing those just-right effects. If you’re splitting a THC drink, it’s best to pour your serving into a separate cup to be clear on dosing.
Just remember that once you’ve popped a can, it should be enjoyed within a day or two for the best flavor and effects.
Can you get a buzz from THC seltzers?
You can get a buzz from THC seltzers, but it’s gentle and more controlled. People describe feeling relaxed and social, comparable to a single cocktail or beer (minus the alcohol and general intoxication, of course).
What Do THC Drinks Feel Like?
One of the interesting things about cannabis, THC beverages included, is that people usually respond to it a little differently. While there are common experiences, individual factors really affect individual responses.
Common experiences
Most people, as we’ve covered, feel a little looser, more relaxed, and more social. Since THC drinks are low dose, the overall experience is usually low key—calm and euphoric, with subtle body effects.
Factors that affect the effects (mood, setting, body weight)
There are a few reasons THC affects people differently. These are the variables that can influence the overall experience:
- Setting. It’s best to sip on a cannabis beverage in a comfortable, familiar environment. If you’re in a place that’s overwhelming or puts you on edge, that can set you up for more anxiety.
- Body weight and metabolism. If you have a fast metabolism, a lower body fat percentage, or fall into the lightweight category, you may notice that you feel effects sooner and they could be more intense.
- Tolerance and experience. Seasoned consumers with a higher tolerance often need higher doses, whereas beginners do better with lower doses.
Sativa vs Indica strain effects in drinks
Cannabis strain can have a subtle impact on the experience of a particular THC drink, though effects are mostly influenced by the cannabinoid and terpene profile. Still, sativa strains typically have an uplifting, energizing effect that works well in social settings, while indica strains are more likely to impart a calmer vibe with physical relaxation benefits.
Keep in mind that in low-dose THC drinks, these differences are really subtle. Plus, many brands use hybrid strains that combine elements from both.
Best Ways to Enjoy Cannabis Drinks
There are lots of ways to enjoy cannabis drinks, but being mindful of a few best practices can help ensure the most positive experience.
Ideal times of day
Cannabis drinks are typically low-dose, and we’ve already covered their rapid onset of effects. Most people enjoy them in the late afternoon or evening to help relax and unwind.
With or without food
You can sip on a THC drink with or without food, just be aware that it can influence the experience. Having a cannabis drink on an empty stomach can mean faster and slightly stronger effects because there’s no buffer. If you pair a cannabis drink with a snack or a full meal, the effects tend to come on more slowly.
For social vs personal use
Cannabis beverages are appealing in social settings, especially as an alternative to alcohol. They’re also discreet and precisely dosed. Those same attributes mean cannabis drinks can be enjoyed solo as well, if you’re relaxing at home or unwinding after work.
Storage and Shelf Life of THC Beverages
Keeping your THC beverages fresh and potent is important. Fortunately, it’s pretty easy.
How long do THC drinks stay fresh?
Most THC drinks are shelf-stable for six months to a year or even longer when they’re unopened and kept in a cool, dark place. But it’s always wise to check the expiration date, since details like ingredients and formulation will matter.
Once you’ve opened a THC drink, it should be enjoyed within a day—especially if it’s carbonated. Not only will the bubbles go flat, but cannabinoids like THC and CBD also degrade when they’re exposed to light and heat.
Should THC drinks be refrigerated?
If they’re unopened, THC drinks don’t necessarily need to be refrigerated, but it’s usually a good idea. Not only does it keep them away from heat and light, but stashing your THC drinks in the fridge also means they’re cold when you’re ready to enjoy one.
How to spot when a THC drink goes bad
THC drinks that are no longer potent or fresh may look cloudy or have a strange odor or taste. As with anything you’re eating or drinking, if you have concerns, it’s better to toss it than take any unnecessary risks.
Buying and Packaging Tips
Depending on where you live, you might have a lot of THC beverage options to wade through. Knowing what to look for—and what to avoid—can help you find something good.
How to choose a legit THC beverage
Always shop from reputable retailers or licensed dispensaries to ensure you’re getting a legit THC beverage that complies with state or federal cannabis regulations. If you’re shopping online, THC drinks have to be federally compliant (hemp-derived with less than 0.3% THC by dry weight).
Check for third-party lab testing and current certificates of analysis (COA). It’s the best way to safeguard yourself against contaminants and confirm cannabinoid potency.
Labeling and symbols to look for
THC beverages that comply with state and federal regulations have specific packaging guidelines. It varies depending on where you live, but you should be able to easily identify THC potency in milligrams and per serving. Look for a QR code that links to the COA as well.
Are there sugar-free or natural ingredient options?
You can find THC-infused drinks that are made with natural ingredients or without sugar. Cornbread Hemp THC Seltzers have a minimal ingredient list, with just 5g of pure cane sugar and only 25 calories. It’s a great option for health-conscious shoppers looking to minimize additives and sugar in their diets.
Final Thoughts on THC-Infused Drinks
We’ve covered the ins and outs of cannabis beverages, so you should be positioned to make well-informed decisions at this point. But let’s cover a few final details as you consider your next steps.
Are THC drinks worth trying?
There's a reason cannabis beverages are rapidly gaining popularity, and folks looking for an alcohol-free way to unwind and socialize may find THC drinks are worth exploring. Low-dose options like Cornbread Hemp THC Seltzers deliver a gentle, controlled buzz that’s easier to manage, all without the calories and hangover associated with booze.
The key is finding a reputable brand you can trust, always checking for a current certificate of analysis, and taking a quick look at the dosage, calories, and ingredients to make sure you’re clear on what you’re sipping. Remember to pace yourself!
What to expect your first time
While everyone should embrace the golden rule, it’s especially true for first-timers. Start by setting the mood: set yourself up somewhere comfortable, with a small snack to nibble on alongside your cannabis beverage, and don’t forget to drink a little water as well.
Sip a low-dose THC drink (up to 5 milligrams) slowly, and pay attention to how it goes. Within the first 30 minutes, you’ll notice your mood lift, and your body relax. These effects are gradual, so sipping slowly is important. The idea is to enjoy the experience as a whole. Cheers!
Where the trend is heading
THC-infused drinks are booming. They’re one of the fastest-growing cannabis categories, especially as more people look for alcohol alternatives. But the legal landscape remains precarious given recent federal legislation, so watch this space.
Where to buy THC drinks
Federally compliant THC beverages, like Cornbread Hemp THC Seltzers, can be purchased online and shipped to adults age 21 and over in most states. If you live in a state with legal cannabis, adults can also purchase THC drinks in licensed dispensaries and approved retailers.
