What is a hemp beverage?
Hemp beverages are seltzers, sodas, mocktails, coffees, teas, and other drinks that contain an infusion of hemp-derived cannabinoids, terpenes, or fibers. Common cannabinoids include CBD and THC, but other "minor cannabinoids" can also be incorporated.
What's the difference between hemp and cannabis?
Cannabis and hemp are essentially the same plant, the difference being how much delta-9 tetrahydrocannibinol (THC) it contains. If 0.3% or less of the weight of the plant is THC, then it's hemp. If the weight of the THC is more than 0.3% of the plant, then it’s cannabis. Beyond that, the plants are very similar: Same look, same smell, same cannabinoids, same terpenes.
However…
From a regulatory perspective, cannabis and hemp are very different. Cannabis (with its capacity for higher levels of THC) and cannabis products can only be sold in licensed dispensaries in states that have legalized it, whereas hemp (with its lower levels of THC) and hemp products are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill.
I've been told that hemp-derived THC beverages are illegal. Who should I believe?
The 2018 Farm Bill explicitly legalized hemp. According to the law:
”The term `hemp' means the plant Cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant,including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis.” (Sec. 297a)
Currently, regulation of hemp-derived THC is happening at the state level. Retailers and distributors are encouraged to contact the Hemp Beverage Alliance to understand the regulatory guidelines in their state.
Can a hemp beverage get me high?
Yes. Some of them. Sometimes.
Beverages that contain only CBD will not cause intoxication. Neither will terpene-infused beverages. But hemp-derived THC-infused beverages have the potential to get you high. So here's where we need to dive in a little more.
Most hemp-derived THC beverages incorporate between two and ten milligrams of THC. For perspective, most states that have legalized cannabis consider ten milligrams to be one serving. In this respect, most hemp-derived THC beverages are considered "micro-dosed" or "sessionable.”
That said, every person is different, every experience is different, and every product is different, which is why the Hemp Beverage Alliance strongly urges the following:
Start low and go slow when consuming a hemp-derived THC beverage.
Never drink a hemp-derived THC beverage if you are planning on driving a car or operating heavy machinery.
Stay away from hemp beverages if you are pregnant or nursing.
Consult a physician if you are taking any medications prior to consuming THC beverages.
Approach hemp beverages just like you'd approach alcohol, especially if you are a first-time consumer. Be smart and don't overdo it. Err on the side of caution.
What can I expect from a THC beverage?
The first thing you can expect is a delightful alternative to alcohol. More than ever, people are realizing the benefit of reducing or removing booze from their lives. Hemp-derived beverages provide an excellent alternative to beer, wine, seltzers, and spirits that have pervaded American drinking culture for centuries.
When consumed responsibly, you can expect feelings of relaxation, amusement, and a general sense of well-being.
Again, it's best to approach hemp-derived THC beverages as you would alcohol. A light beer can be a refreshing treat after a hard day of yard work. Several light beers, on the other hand, can lead to intoxication and a terrible morning after. A hemp-derived THC beverage at the end of the day can be a relaxing alternative to alcohol. But drink too many and you might end up “high.”
The Hemp Beverage Alliance urges consumers to enjoy hemp-beverages responsibly. That means moderation, knowing your limits, and taking steps to ensure you and others around you are safe.
Be smart. Go slow. Don’t overdo it.
How are hemp-derived THC beverages different than the ones I see in dispensaries?
Except for the source of the THC, there may be no difference at all. In fact, many cannabis beverage brands found in dispensaries also have a hemp beverage that is found in conventional store.
Are you going to put dispensaries out of business?
Quite the contrary, the Hemp Beverage Alliance strongly believes that cannabis and hemp can thrive alongside each other.
Most consumers are going to choose hemp-derived THC beverages for a light experience. For those wanting something a bit heavier, the dispensary is going to be their best bet.
Again, it's best to look at the alcohol industry as a model. In many states, beer and wine are for sale everywhere but spirits must be purchased at a state-licensed store. That's how the Alliance sees cannabis and hemp co-existing together.
How do I get hemp-derived THC beverages into my store/bar/venue?
Email us and we'll help you connect with brands and distributors that can bring the highest quality beverages for your customers to enjoy.