News Summary
THC seltzers are gaining popularity in South Carolina as consumers explore alternatives to traditional alcoholic drinks. Craft and Draft leads the trend, offering diverse THC-infused options, reflecting a shift in societal drinking habits. Despite regulatory uncertainty, the beverage’s market is rapidly expanding, appealing even to older demographics seeking mindful consumption. With plans for more flavors, the future looks promising for THC seltzers in the state’s social sipping culture.
THC Seltzers Spark New Interest in South Carolina’s Beverage Scene
Columbia is buzzing with excitement as THC seltzers make a splash in the state’s beverage market, bringing a refreshing twist to social drinking. Since their introduction in 2023, these non-alcoholic seltzers containing delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a natural compound derived from cannabis, are capturing the interest of both seasoned drinkers and those looking for alternatives to traditional alcoholic beverages.
A Beverage Trend in the Making
Craft and Draft, a popular beverage shop that has been a local fixture since its opening in 2014, is at the forefront of this new trend. The co-founder, Kellan Monroe, noted that the beverage pattern in Columbia has shifted dramatically over the years, evolving from bitter IPAs, to a surge in the popularity of alcoholic seltzers, and now the growing interest in THC-infused options. This evolution showcases a significant change in consumer preferences as folks seek out new ways to enjoy social occasions without the drawbacks of alcohol.
As demand for THC seltzers continues to rise, breweries and retail shops across Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville are embracing this innovation. Monroe started selling THC seltzers from various vendors like Peak Drift Brewing Company and Triple in December 2023. This was made possible after distributors approached him the previous year, paving the way for a new chapter in beverage choices.
The Surge of Options
It’s amazing how fast this market is expanding. The number of available THC seltzer brands has skyrocketed, growing from just a few options to nearly a new brand launching every week! Since Peak Drift Brewing Company started testing its THC seltzer batches in June 2024 and launched the final product in August, the buzz around these refreshing beverages has only intensified.
Peak Drift offers a trio of enticing flavors, each with doses of either 5 mg or 10 mg of THC, appealing to a range of preferences. Testing and feedback from consumers indicate that these seltzers offer a relaxed and refreshed feeling, offering a different experience than traditional alcoholic drinks.
A Shift in Societal Drinking Habits
Interestingly, it seems like older adults, particularly those in the 50 to 60 age range, are gravitating towards THC seltzers more than any other demographic. This shift is seen as a transition towards mindful drinking, with many consumers looking to enjoy social interactions without the negative effects associated with alcohol. For aging craft beer enthusiasts, this trend feels like a perfect fit.
The Challenges Ahead
Despite the burgeoning popularity of these beverages, the future of THC seltzers is somewhat shrouded in regulatory uncertainty. Currently, marijuana remains illegal in South Carolina, but the 2018 federal farm bill did legalize hemp production, which includes products with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC. While the state currently lacks specific regulations for hemp beverages, two outspoken bills are in the pipeline, hoping to oversee their sale and distribution to avoid potential misrepresentation of THC content in these products.
State Representative Chris Wooten, who sponsors the bills, is focused on addressing the concerns surrounding potential exploitation of THC’s effects in the marketplace.
Exciting Future Prospects
With growing attention towards THC seltzers, companies like Peak Drift are keen to diversify their offerings. They’re planning to introduce additional flavors and even explore non-alcoholic alternatives such as canned water and nitro cold brew coffee. Something intriguing is how these products are being marketed as functional and refreshing without explicitly claiming intoxication effects, focusing instead on light euphoria and relaxation.
The THC seltzers’ consumption guidelines suggest taking it slow, encouraging customers to sip leisurely and not exceed four drinks within a sitting. This careful approach emphasizes enjoyment without the risks of cognitive impairment commonly associated with traditional cannabis products.
While the legal landscape continues to evolve, a sense of optimism fills the air in South Carolina’s beverage scene. As interest grows and legislative developments unfold, THC seltzers are poised to carve out a significant niche in social sipping culture, welcoming consumers to reinvent their drinking experience.
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