What are THC drinks, a popular replacement for alcohol in US among young generation

Once associated primarily with traditional smoking, cannabis is now entering the mainstream in new and creative forms, and none is catching on faster than THC-infused drinks. These cannabis beverages are rapidly growing in popularity across the United States, particularly among younger consumers who are turning away from alcohol in search of healthier, more balanced lifestyles.
Available in convenience stores, liquor shops, and even online, these drinks are marketed as alternatives to beer, wine, or hard seltzers, offering relaxation without the hangover. Their surge in demand reflects a cultural shift in how Americans, especially Gen Z, view both cannabis and alcohol.

THC drinks are beverages infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis that creates the feeling of being "high." These beverages generally fall into two categories: those made with regulated marijuana (available in licensed dispensaries within legal states) and those made with hemp-derived THC, which are federally legal and more widely accessible.
Since the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of Schedule 1 drugs, products with less than 0.3% THC are legal at the federal level. This change has allowed THC-infused beverages, especially those derived from hemp, to appear on store shelves even in states where marijuana remains illegal.

The growing demand for THC drinks comes at the intersection of rising alcohol prices, shifting health priorities, and increasing cannabis acceptance. A 2024 LendingTree survey showed that 64% of alcohol consumers want to cut back for health reasons, while 41% are motivated by financial concerns.
Gen Z is leading this shift. Over half of Gen Z drinkers surveyed plan to reduce or stop alcohol consumption in 2024. For many, THC drinks offer a compelling alternative. They are often low-calorie, sugar-free, and don’t cause the sluggish "hangover" feeling that follows alcohol.

Unlike alcohol, THC drinks can be consumed for various purposes such as relaxation, focus, sleep, or socialisation. This versatility is part of what makes them attractive to a broader audience, not just the stereotypical cannabis user.

While both alcohol and THC drinks are used for relaxation and social enjoyment, they differ in onset and effects. THC beverages typically take longer to kick in, between 30 minutes to 2 hours, compared to alcohol, which can take effect within 15 to 45 minutes.
The long-term effects also vary. While alcohol is linked to liver disease, cancer, and heart problems, THC can affect mental health, particularly in high doses or with frequent use. However, many consumers report feeling more refreshed the next day after using THC drinks compared to alcohol.
As attitudes around cannabis continue to evolve, THC-infused drinks are carving out a space in American culture, especially among Gen Z. From health-conscious consumers to those just looking for a new way to unwind, these beverages are becoming more than just a trend. They are redefining the way we drink.