As the legalization of cannabis continues to spread across the United States, a new trend is emerging among millennials: cannabis-infused drinks. A cannabis-infused beverage offers a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks, providing a satisfying buzz without the negative effects that come with excessive alcohol consumption. 

The World of Cannabis-Infused Drinks

Cannabis-infused drinks have been around for centuries, dating back to ancient India and China. That said, it wasn’t until recently that these beverages began gaining popularity in the United States. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global cannabis beverages market size was valued at $1.82 billion in 2020. 

Going ahead, it is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17.8% from 2021 to 2028. Today, companies are continuously developing innovative technologies to enhance the infusion process. 

These include nano-emulsion techniques that increase the bioavailability of cannabinoids, ensuring faster absorption and more consistent effects. Some cannabis-infused drink brands allow consumers to choose different strains of cannabis for their desired effects. This allows for customization based on preferences such as relaxation, focus, or creativity.

A Brief History of Cannabis-infused Drinks

Cannabis-infused drinks were commonly used as medicinal remedies throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Fun fact: Many popular medications contain cannabis as an ingredient, including cough syrups and pain relievers.

However, as the prohibition of cannabis spread across the United States in the 1900s, cannabis beverages fell out of favor. The US government’s negative portrayal of cannabis led to a decline in its use for medicinal purposes, and the use of cannabis in any form was eventually made illegal.

In 1996, California became the first state in the US to legalize the use of Cannabis for medicinal purposes. Since then, 40+ states have legalized the medicinal use of Cannabis. Cannabis-infused drinks are becoming increasingly socially acceptable, as attitudes toward cannabis continue to evolve. 

This, coupled with the growing consumer interest in wellness-focused and alternative beverage options, indicates a promising market potential for cannabis-infused drinks in the future.

The Legalization Effect on the Market

States where legal recreational marijuana has been approved are Colorado, Washington, D.C., California, and many other states (Source: US News). 

One of the advantages of cannabis-infused drinks is the ability to control the dosage. Compared to other consumption methods like edibles, cannabis-infused drinks typically have a faster onset of effects. The THC is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, leading to quicker onset compared to digestion. 

The duration of effects can vary depending on the individual and the product but typically ranges from 1-4 hours. Unlike smoking or vaping, which can be noticeable and potentially bothersome to others, cannabis drinks can be consumed in public without drawing attention.

Additionally, cannabis-infused drinks are often lower in calories than traditional alcoholic beverages, making them a healthier option for those who want to enjoy a drink without the negative health effects of alcohol. At Find Wunder, we believe in the power of cannabis to promote overall wellness, including better sleep. 

And, we’re not alone. We’ve heard from many of our users that our cannabis-infused beverages have helped them get a more restful night’s sleep.

Finding Your Chill: Relax with Find Wunder’s THC Beverages

Looking for a low-calorie drink that offers health benefits? Look no further than Find Wunder. Our cannabis-infused drinks are a refreshing way to unwind after a long day, with as few as 25 calories per drink.  Each drink provides a gentle buzz,  making it a perfect alternative to alcohol.

Millennials’ Changing Preferences

Millennials are known for their unique and evolving preferences. One trend that has been gaining traction in recent years is the consumption of cannabis-infused drinks. While traditional alcoholic beverages have long been a staple of social gatherings, cannabis, and non-alcoholic beverages are quickly becoming a popular alternative among this demographic.

Health and Wellness Factors

One reason for this shift could be the health and wellness benefits associated with cannabis consumption. Unlike alcohol, which can have negative effects on both physical and mental health, cannabis is non-toxic, non-addictive, and does not cause hangovers. 

For millennials who prioritize their health and well-being, cannabis drinks offer a healthier alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. Furthermore, many millennials are looking to reduce their alcohol consumption altogether, and cannabis drinks provide a way to do so without sacrificing the social aspect of drinking, while feeling a buzz, with friends.

With such a wide range of options available, millennials can choose a cannabis drink that suits their individual preferences and enhances their social experience.

Environmental and Ethical Considerations

Millennials are also turning to cannabis drinks for environmental and ethical reasons. The production of alcohol is a resource-intensive process that contributes to environmental degradation, while the production of cannabis drinks can be more sustainable and environmentally friendly.

In addition, some millennials are concerned with the ethical implications of consuming alcohol, which has been linked to a range of social problems, including violence and addiction. By choosing cannabis drinks instead, they can feel good about their consumption choices and support a more ethical and sustainable industry.

Overall, the rise of cannabis drinks among millennials can be attributed to a combination of health and wellness concerns, social preferences, and environmental and ethical considerations. As this demographic continues to shape the market and drive innovation, it will be interesting to see how the cannabis industry evolves to meet their changing needs and preferences.

The Science Behind Cannabis-Infused Drinks

So how do cannabis-infused drinks work, and what are the benefits?

Understanding THC and CBD

Cannabis contains two main active ingredients: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC is the psychoactive component responsible for the “high” that users experience, while CBD is non-psychoactive and is more known for various potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief and anxiety reduction.

The Entourage Effect

The entourage effect is a complex interaction between cannabinoids and other compounds found in cannabis, such as terpenes and flavonoids. These compounds work together to produce a more potent and effective therapeutic effect than any single compound could achieve on its own.

Cannabis drinks can be formulated to provide specific ratios of THC and CBD, allowing users to tailor their experience to their specific needs. For example, a drink with a higher ratio of CBD to THC may be more effective for pain relief, while a drink with a higher ratio of THC to CBD may be more effective for anxiety reduction. 

Every person responds differently to each compound, so it’s suggested that each person tries different ratios to find the right experience they are looking for.  

The Benefits of Microdosing

One of the advantages of sipping cannabis drinks is the ability to microdose, or consume small amounts of cannabis over an extended period. This provides a gentle and sustained effect, without the overwhelming high associated with traditional edible consumption. 

Additionally, microdosing allows users to maintain their focus and productivity while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. Microdosing is also a great way to experiment with different ratios of THC and CBD, without risking an uncomfortable or unpleasant experience. 

By starting with a low dose and gradually increasing over time, users can find the perfect balance for their individual needs. Overall, cannabis-infused drinks offer a safe and effective way to consume cannabis, with a variety of therapeutic benefits. 

Whether you’re looking for better sleep, pain relief, anxiety reduction, or just a relaxing evening, there’s a cannabis drink out there for you.

Will THC Drinks Show Up on a Drug Test?

Yes, they will. Cannabis-infused drinks in 2026 may have better formulations than their earlier versions, but as long as they have THC in them, they will still appear on a drug test.

Zentopia explains that once THC is consumed, the body breaks it down into metabolites like THC-COOH, which standard drug tests can detect. It doesn’t matter if it’s a low-dose seltzer or a more potent beverage because a drug test is capable of picking up traces of THC, no matter how much there is in your drink. Even hemp-derived options under federal limits with less than 0.3% THC can still trigger a positive, since small amounts add up at the metabolic level. 

Different types of drug tests, however, have different levels of capability in spotting THC. Cornbread states that urine tests, the most common type, can flag THC metabolites for 3 to 7 days in occasional cannabis consumers and up to four weeks or more for frequent users. Saliva tests can find the same metabolites up to 24 to 72 hours after consumption, while hair follicle tests have a much longer detection duration that can encompass 90 days. Blood tests are used for exposing active THC, so they can sense the THC in your blood for a few hours to 2 days.

If you’re going to take a drug test, don’t take any chances. The surest way to pass is to avoid anything with THC for at least 10 to 14 days before the test date. Add some exercise and more hydration to your detox, and you’ll likely get rid of THC remnants in your system. For the time being, your cannabis drink can wait.

Should You Mix Cannabis Beverages With Alcohol?

You may think alcohol and cannabis drinks create a fun blend, but it can actually be dangerous. When alcohol and THC meet, they amplify each other, so you must approach their fusion with extreme caution.

GoodRx and Drink Anomaly highlight that alcohol can increase THC absorption in your bloodstream, so even standard doses of cannabis-infused drinks can hit harder than expected. At the same time, THC can soften your perception of how intoxicated you are, pushing you to keep drinking past your natural limit. You may be fine one moment and then suddenly go out of control the next!

The short-term effects are disorienting: nausea, dizziness, anxiety, and that unmistakable “greening out” sensation that pulls you out of the experience instead of deeper into it. If you’re driving, the risk compounds. According to the Association for Psychological Science (APS), you’re twice as likely to get into accidents because of impaired coordination and judgment. News Medical suggests that regularly combining the two can lead to long-term dependency, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders.

If you really want to pour alcohol and weed drinks together, then you must:

• Be comfortable with THC and know how different THC doses affect you.  

• Be intentional about how much of each substance you'll consume and why.

• Never operate machinery or drive a vehicle while under the influence.

We advise focusing on moderation and balance. You should be concerned when you are having more of each substance, rather than using a bit of each to lower overall consumption.

How Should Cannabis Drinks Be Stored?

The way you store your cannabis-infused drinks can affect more than their shelf life. It can also change their taste when you finally take that first sip. Here is how you can stash your cannabis beverages so they stay delicious and refreshing no matter when you drink them:

1. Seal them tight once opened.

When you uncap your drink, you must always put the lid back on tightly after sipping to preserve what remains. This is because oxygen exposure can diminish the beverage’s potency and flatten its flavor over time due to oxidation.

You’ve got a few days at most to enjoy your cannabis drink at its best after opening it. To maintain its quality as much and as long as possible, 23 State recommends pouring it into an airtight, opaque container, preferably made of glass or thick plastic. If your weed beverages come in cans, you can cover them in foil or simply transfer the contents into dark-colored bottles and twist the caps on securely. Label your containers with the date of storage, so you know when they’re still good to drink.

2. Protect them from light and heat.

You wouldn’t want to place your cannabis drinks where sunlight can reach them. According to Barfly Hemp, heat and light, especially UV light, can degrade THC faster and dull the nuanced flavors carried by terpenes. To prevent this, the darker and cooler your storage space is, the better.

You can stow your beverages in a shaded shelf or a tucked-away pantry corner. The best place, of course, is still within your refrigerator, where your drinks are constantly shielded from light and warmth. The darkness preserves terpenes, keeping the original taste of your cannabis refreshments intact.

3. Keep them cool, but not frozen.

Who wants to sip a cannabis beverage that’s lukewarm? By putting your drink in the refrigerator at around 35 to 40°F (2–4°C), the cold enhances its flavor and sustains its freshness. Low temperatures slow cannabinoid breakdown and maintain that crisp carbonation, especially in THC seltzers.

However, don’t keep your weed beverages in the freezer for too long. Once your drinks freeze, their texture and taste get warped, leaving them a bit off from their original state. Set the temperature low, but never drop it to zero if you don’t want your drink to turn into solid ice or a bland slushy.

How to Enjoy Cannabis-Infused Drinks Responsibly

As with any substance, it’s essential to consume cannabis drinks responsibly. While there are many benefits to enjoying cannabis drinks, it’s important to keep in mind that they can be potent and should be consumed with care. Here are some tips for safe and responsible enjoyment:

Understanding Dosage and Potency

Cannabis drinks can vary in potency, so it’s essential to understand the dosage and start with a small amount, especially when trying a new product. It’s also important to note that the effects of cannabis can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as weight, metabolism, and tolerance. 

Users should start with a low dose and wait at least an hour before consuming more, as the effects of cannabis can take some time to set in. It’s also important to read the label carefully so that you fully understand the potency of the product. 

Some cannabis drinks may contain higher levels of THC, which is the psychoactive compound that produces the “high” associated with cannabis. Users should be mindful of the potency and adjust their dosage accordingly.

Pairing Cannabis Drinks with Food

Cannabis drinks can enhance the flavors of various foods, so it’s worth experimenting with different pairings to find the perfect combination. For example, a citrus-flavored cannabis drink may pair well with spicy foods, while a chocolate-flavored drink may complement desserts. 

However, users should be mindful of the potential for overconsumption, as cannabis can enhance the effects of other substances in the body. It’s also important to note that consuming cannabis drinks on an empty stomach may lead to stronger effects, so users should eat a meal or snack before consuming a cannabis drink.

Safe Consumption Tips and Guidelines

Finally, users should always follow safe consumption tips and guidelines to ensure a positive experience. This includes avoiding driving or operating machinery while under the influence of cannabis, as it can impair motor skills and reaction time. 

Users should also keep products out of reach of children and pets, as they can be harmful if ingested. It’s also important to consume cannabis drinks in a safe and comfortable environment. Many users enjoy consuming outdoors while on a hike or a walk, while others prefer to consume them in more comfortable and familiar settings.  

In states like Minnesota, cannabis beverages are widely available at bars, restaurants, and even beer taprooms. It’s important to be mindful of your surroundings and avoid consuming cannabis drinks in unfamiliar places. By following these tips and guidelines, users can enjoy cannabis drinks safely and responsibly, while experiencing the many benefits they have to offer.

The Future of Cannabis Beverages

What can we expect from the cannabis drink market in the coming years?

Innovative Infusion Techniques

One of the most exciting developments in the cannabis drink market is the use of innovative infusion techniques. Companies are exploring ways to improve the taste, potency, and effects of cannabis drinks through the use of new technologies such as nanoemulsion and water-soluble cannabinoids.

Nanoemulsion technology involves breaking down the cannabis oil into tiny droplets that can be easily mixed with water. Those droplets remain homogeneously suspended within the beverage, ensuring potency accuracy, and stability. 

The tiny droplet size offers a large surface area, which accelerates the absorption for quick onset and predictable effects. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of adoption by traditional beverage distributors, making it difficult for consumers to easily find cannabis beverages.  

Further, the lack of regulation and standardization in the cannabis industry can make it difficult for consumers to know what they are getting and for companies to ensure consistent quality. There are also concerns about the potential for negative social and health effects, particularly if cannabis drinks are marketed in a way that appeals to children or encourages excessive consumption.

Conclusion

Cannabis-infused drinks offer a unique alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages, providing a range of health, social, and environmental benefits. 

With the legalization of cannabis continuing to spread across the United States, we can expect to see continued growth in the cannabis drink market, along with new and innovative products that cater to different tastes and preferences. 

As with any substance, it’s essential to consume cannabis drinks responsibly, following safe consumption tips and guidelines to ensure a positive and enjoyable experience.