Everything you need to Know About Hemp Drinks
Let’s get one thing straight: hemp-derived drinks are not a loophole. They’re a product of the law, of innovation, and of demand. The fact that they’re delicious is just a bonus.
Lately, there’s been a lot of noise—especially from regulators and headlines—about so-called “gray area” products. States are scrambling, lobbyists are panicking, and consumers are understandably confused. But here’s the truth most of those conversations miss: these drinks aren’t a sketchy workaround. They’re a new format for an ancient plant, and they’re here in full color.
They’re stocked on shelves in mainstream retail stores. They’re shipped nationwide. They’re tested, labeled, and formulated with precision. And most importantly, they’re being consumed by real people in real life—people who want to unwind after work, vibe at a party, or just feel a little better in their bodies without the baggage of booze.
We’re not talking about mystery edibles or garage-made gummies. We’re talking about beautifully crafted, shelf-stable, lab-tested drinks that follow the law to the letter—and offer something traditional cannabis hasn’t always delivered: predictability.
Hemp-Derived ≠ Sketchy
Let’s clear up the biggest misconception once and for all: “hemp-derived” doesn’t mean synthetic. It doesn’t mean weak. And it definitely doesn’t mean illegal.
The 2018 Farm Bill federally legalized hemp and its naturally occurring derivatives—including Delta-9 THC, the same compound responsible for the classic cannabis “high.” The catch? That THC must be present in concentrations below 0.3% by dry weight.
What does that mean in plain English? A standard 12-ounce beverage can legally contain up to 10 mg of THC and still be federally compliant. Not a workaround. Not a loophole. Just chemistry and math.
Yes, there have been bad actors in the space—people rushing to cash in without proper testing or transparency. But that’s not the fault of the format. It’s a call for better standards. And the good brands? The ones doing it right? We’re here for the long haul.
At SHAKE, we test every batch, label every dose, and obsess over our formulations. Hemp-derived to us doesn’t mean lesser—it means accessible, predictable, and trusted. That’s a standard we’re proud to hold.
Drinks Are Having Their Moment
Let’s talk numbers. The global cannabis beverage market is projected to hit $30 billion by 2035. That’s not a phase—it’s a full-on cultural shift.
Why? Because people are rethinking their relationship with alcohol. They want to unwind without getting wrecked. They want to have fun without the hangover. They want to feel good—on purpose.
Low-dose THC beverages fill that space beautifully. They’re discreet, consistent, and socially functional. They don’t knock you sideways or ruin your morning. And the good ones? They taste amazing.
SHAKE was created with this exact moment in mind. Our signature glitter drops turn sparkling water, mocktails, or iced tea into a customizable, low-dose THC experience. A few drops and you’ve got a vibe that fits into your life—not the other way around.
The Future Is Functional
This category isn’t just about getting high—it’s about feeling better.
Think: mood support, stress relief, creative flow, sensory pleasure. Functional drinks have been quietly taking over wellness spaces for years. From CBD to adaptogens to mushrooms and nootropics—people are reaching for alternatives that actually work.
THC is the next natural step. And guess what? Consumers aren’t scared. They’re curious. They’re reading labels. They’re doing the research. They want to know what’s in their drink, how it’ll make them feel, and how it fits into their wellness routine.
We’re not selling rebellion—we’re selling relief, relaxation, and a good time that doesn’t derail your day. This is cannabis for grown-ups, for conscious consumers, for people who want more from their drink than just bubbles or buzz.
So What’s Next?
The legal landscape is evolving fast. States like Minnesota are leading the charge with thoughtful, functional regulation—establishing licensing frameworks, dosage guidelines, and quality control. That’s good for everyone: consumers, retailers, and brands doing it right.
What we don’t need is panic-driven policy. Let’s not confuse regulation with restriction. Let’s build a cannabis beverage category that’s safe, inclusive, transparent, and fun as hell.
That starts with education. With storytelling. With brands that invite consumers in instead of gatekeeping. And with a commitment to meeting people where they are—whether that’s a bodega shelf, a sober-curious cocktail bar, or your best friend’s baby shower.
At SHAKE, we’re proud to be part of that shift. We’ll keep doing what we do: making beautiful, compliant, vibe-forward products that spark joy and start conversations.
Because hemp-derived drinks aren’t going anywhere. And neither are we.
Want to Chat?
Whether you're stocking a boutique, planning an event, or curating a better-for-you beverage menu, we’d love to connect. SHAKE is flexible, fun, and functional—and yes, the glitter is optional (but highly recommended).
Let’s build the future of drinking—together.
Reach out anytime. We’re just a drop away.
