Could Cannabis Beverages Be Safer Than Alcohol?

Whether consumed to help relax or to celebrate and socialize, Americans have a love for alcoholic beverages and the buzz they provide. However, with more states legalizing marijuana and new cannabis drinks available, many are wondering if marijuana beverages are a healthier alternative instead of drinking alcohol. These cannabis beverages can also serve as an option for those looking to manage their alcohol habits and address alcohol dependence, offering a potential solution for individuals seeking to reduce or quit alcohol consumption.

The first cannabis drinks that hit the market in a small number of states were not particularly good. In the beginning, many drink formulations had strange flavors and aftertaste. Beverage manufacturers went back to revise their product recipes after learning that Americans want THC-infused drinks that don’t actually taste like there is cannabis inside.

Health Risks Associated With Regular Consumption of Alcohol

Alcohol has been part of the American culture since it was first sold as American Apple Brandy in the 1700s. Since then, alcoholic drinks have become mainstream. In the United States, the Distilled Spirits Council reported that sales of alcoholic beverages broke records in 2022, rising 5.1% compared to 2021. Total sales of alcohol were just over $37B in 2022 alone.

Just because alcohol is available everywhere and culturally accepted does not mean it is healthy for you. In fact, not many Americans know how harmful alcohol can be. Sure, we hear about people who become addicted to alcohol. And we know about the potentially life-threatening condition of alcohol poisoning. But what health risks are associated with moderate use of alcohol over a long period of time?

Other countries are sounding the alarm loudly. There are ample clinical studies that show regular consumption of alcoholic beverages can lead to the development of several possibly fatal health conditions, including:

• Heart disease.
• Stroke.
• Cancer (mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, breast, liver and bowel).
• Liver disease.
• Damage to Central Nervous System (CNS) functioning.
• Pancreatitis.
• Mental health disorders (such as depression).

Did you know that the Alcohol Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) does not pre-approve advertising for alcoholic beverages? The only warning most people will see in an alcohol commercial or print advertisement is “Please Drink Responsibly.”

You don’t see the disclaimers on alcoholic beverages that you see on prescription drug advertisements. Perhaps if the TTB made it mandatory to communicate the potential health risks of using alcohol, there would be more awareness.

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates that more than 140,000 Americans die every year from alcohol-related diseases and adverse events. That makes alcohol abuse the fourth-leading cause of preventable death in America, behind tobacco, poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, and illicit controlled substances.

Men are more at risk statistically (which may be due to increased consumption by males), with approximately 97,000 dying annually. Female deaths from alcohol use disorder average just over 40,000 fatalities per year.

The Benefits of Cannabis Infused Beverages

Cannabis infused beverages offer a range of benefits for those looking for a healthier alternative to drinking alcohol. One of the primary advantages of cannabis infused drinks is their potential to reduce health risks associated with alcohol consumption. Cannabis infused beverages have been shown to have fewer detrimental health effects compared to alcohol use.

Another benefit of cannabis infused drinks is their ability to provide a social buzz without the negative effects of alcohol. Many people enjoy the social aspect of drinking but may not want to experience the hangover or other negative effects that come with it. Cannabis infused beverages offer a solution to this problem, allowing individuals to enjoy a social buzz without the risks associated with alcohol consumption.

In addition to their potential health benefits, cannabis infused beverages are also becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and variety. With a range of flavors and potencies available, individuals can choose a cannabis infused drink that suits their needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drink to unwind after a long day or a social drink to enjoy with friends, cannabis infused beverages offer a convenient and enjoyable alternative to traditional methods of cannabis consumption.

How Cannabis Infused Drinks Work

Cannabis infused drinks work by using a process called nanoemulsion to break down cannabis oil into nanoparticles that can be blended with a liquid base. This process allows the cannabis oil to be evenly distributed throughout the drink, providing a consistent and predictable experience for the consumer.

When consumed, the nanoparticles of cannabis oil are absorbed into the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine. The THC and other cannabinoids in the cannabis oil then interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood, appetite, pain sensation, and memory.

The effects of cannabis infused drinks can vary depending on the dose, individual tolerance, method of consumption, and body composition. However, most cannabis infused drinks are designed to provide a mild to moderate high, with effects that can be felt within 10-15 minutes and lasting for several hours.

Where Are Cannabis Beverages Legal to Buy?

Cannabis-infused beverages are not available in every state where medical marijuana is legalized. But if you are traveling to one of the states where they are available, you can find them at licensed medical and recreational cannabis dispensaries.

At the time of writing, these states permit the sale of cannabis-infused drinks:

• Arkansas
• Arizona
• California
• Colorado
• Maine
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Missouri
• Nevada
• New Mexico
• New York
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Texas (less than 0.30% THC).

Several states that have legalized recreational marijuana use are in the process of amending laws to include THC drinks under the category of edible cannabis products. Pennsylvania has introduced Senate Bill Number 538, for example, which would legalize the sale of cannabis-infused beverages in the state.

The Food and Drug Administration has not approved cannabidiol (CBD) as a food additive. But after the 2018 Farm Act legalized hemp-derived products, manufacturers have distributed products in a legal gray area. And CBD-infused beverages can be found in almost every state.

Cannabis-infused drinks, however, have more than the federally legal limit of 0.30% THC. This is why you can only find them in select states that have legalized recreational cannabis and permitted the sale of THC beverages.

What is the Minimum Age Requirement for Purchasing Cannabis Beverages?

Like other types of cannabis, recreational marijuana beverages can only be purchased by people who are aged twenty-one (21) years or older. In states where recreational marijuana is not legalized, different types of THC-infused beverages may be available. That includes Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC drinks, which are typically sold at tobacco and vape stores.

Do Cannabis Beverages Contain Alcohol?

Some types of cannabis drinks do have alcohol content. And that can be a safety concern for a variety of reasons. First, depending on the formulation and the individual consuming it, cannabis can be highly sedative. Alcohol is also sedative, so there is a potential when consuming cannabis-infused beverages to become heavily impaired.

Many products, however, are formulated without alcohol, such as alcohol-free wines and seltzers. This may make cannabis drinks safe compared to beverages with both THC and alcohol content. Cannabis drinks offer similar physical effects as alcohol, but many people feel it is a lighter and less sedating social buzz.

How Intoxicating Are THC Beverages?

Drinking THC without alcohol may be better for socializing because the effects of THC are different. After a few alcoholic drinks, some people can feel drowsy, nauseous, or, in some cases, depressed. Alcohol is a known depressant. However, many THC-infused beverages are formulated with Sativa cannabis extractions, which can provide a boost of energy and make people feel happy, talkative, alert, and focused.

Are There Any Long-Term Health Risks With THC Infused Beverages?

Legalized cannabis products have been available in the United States for less than ten years. The same is true for most countries around the world. As such, there hasn’t been enough time to conduct clinical studies that can determine whether weed drinks are safe to consume. Or what ingredients and potency may make cannabis drinks healthier than alcohol.

The popularity of cannabis use and infused beverages is rising. In fact, the sale of cannabis drinks is projected to reach $2B by 2026. Because of the lack of clinical studies on the long-term use of cannabis and consuming cannabis beverages, the guidance is to err on the side of moderation. And to choose a cannabis drink that does not have alcohol content because of the harmful effects of alcohol.

Responsible Consumption of Cannabis Drinks

As with any substance that can cause psychoactive effects, it’s essential to consume cannabis drinks responsibly. This means being mindful of your own personal limits, tolerance, and reactions to cannabis, as well as being aware of the potential risks and side effects.

To consume cannabis drinks responsibly, start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed. It’s also essential to read the label and understand the ingredients and potency of the drink. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid consuming cannabis drinks in situations where you may be impaired or put yourself or others at risk.

It’s also important to note that cannabis drinks can interact with other substances, including alcohol and medications. Avoid consuming cannabis drinks with other substances, and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

The Future of Cannabis Drinks

The future of cannabis drinks looks bright, with the industry expected to reach over $2 billion in annual sales by 2026. As more states legalize recreational cannabis and the stigma around cannabis use continues to decrease, the demand for cannabis infused beverages is likely to increase.

In addition to their growing popularity, cannabis drinks are also becoming increasingly sophisticated, with a range of flavors and potencies available. As the industry continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative products and flavors emerge.

However, as the industry grows, it’s essential to prioritize responsible consumption and education. This means providing clear labeling and instructions for use, as well as educating consumers about the potential risks and side effects of cannabis drinks.

Overall, the future of cannabis drinks looks promising, with a range of benefits and opportunities for those looking for a healthier alternative to drinking alcohol.

Are Cannabis Drinks Safer Than Alcoholic Drinks?

Beverages that contain THC but no alcohol content may be safer than conventional alcoholic beverages. The reason that there is so much interest in cannabis-infused drinks is that they do not generally contain alcohol. So, they are used recreationally as a possible safer alternative, with fewer side effects than conventional alcoholic beverages.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have estimated that 1 in 3 American adults may be classified as an “excessive drinker,” and 1 in 30 are habitually dependent on alcohol. The addiction potential for cannabis is much lower, and the CDC states that only 10% of regular marijuana users will form a substance use disorder for marijuana.

Individuals who suffer from alcoholism may be able to segue to cannabis-infused drinks as part of a substance abuse rehabilitation program. While typical addiction therapies require that patients forgo using any drugs or stimulants, some clinical studies have suggested cannabis can help people struggling with opioid dependency.

Cannabis-infused drinks may be a new step in recovery to help ease patients away from alcohol use to what appears to be a much safer alternative.

Aaron Bloom

Aaron Bloom, an experienced healthcare attorney, serves as the CEO, overseeing the mission and growth of DocMJ and Medwell Health and Wellness Centers since 2016. Aaron’s passion for improving patients’ lives comes from his experience in healthcare. For more than 20 years, Aaron has owned, operated, and represented traditional healthcare organizations. This experience created a passion for finding improved ways to relieve suffering. His goal as CEO is to work daily to provide relief to all patients who seek better health and wellness through the medicinal benefits of medical cannabis and evidence-based alternative medicines.