News Roundup 4-16-2025

The market for THC beverages is hitting a new high

🔗 Channel 3000

The THC beverage market in Wisconsin has expanded due to a legal loophole allowing hemp-derived THC. Local retailers and producers report growing consumer interest, especially in low-dose, sessionable options. The market is currently unregulated by the state, though the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture is monitoring developments. Brands like Lush, Herban Extracts, and others are capitalizing on the demand, offering products in bars, coffee shops, and dispensaries.

Cheech & Chong’s High & Dry and High & Tea Now Available Across Louisiana

🔗 Newswire

Cheech & Chong’s Cannabis Company has expanded distribution of its hemp-derived beverages—High & Dry and High & Tea—throughout Louisiana. These products are available in over 100 retail stores across the state. The beverages are made with nano-emulsified Delta-9 THC derived from hemp and remain compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill. The brand has partnered with Pelican Craft Brands for distribution.

Greensboro Cannabis Crawl Offers a Different Kind of Buzz

🔗 The Assembly NC

The Greensboro Cannabis Crawl featured hemp-derived THC beverages served in local bars and restaurants. Organized by Down the Rabbit Hole, the event aimed to normalize cannabis consumption in social settings. Most participating venues offered cocktails made with Delta-9 or Delta-8 THC seltzers. Despite state regulations being unclear, organizers adhered to the federal Farm Bill by keeping THC content within legal limits.

New THC rules coming for Alabama — or perhaps not

🔗 Birmingham Business Journal

Alabama legislators are debating a bill that would ban psychoactive hemp-derived products like Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC. The bill passed the Senate but has encountered opposition in the House. Retailers and manufacturers have raised concerns over the bill’s impact on small businesses. As of now, the final outcome remains uncertain.

Texas House debates banning THC

🔗 The Paisano

The Texas House of Representatives is reviewing legislation that would ban hemp-derived THC products, including Delta-8 and Delta-9. Proponents argue the ban would protect consumers and close legal loopholes, while opponents cite economic harm to small businesses. If passed, the bill would make manufacturing and selling these products illegal. The debate continues amid rising THC beverage popularity in the state.

Bent Brewstillery looking for a buyer as owners reveal plan to retire

🔗 Bring Me The News

The owners of Bent Brewstillery in Roseville, Minnesota, have announced plans to retire and are seeking a buyer for the business. Bent was Minnesota’s first brewery-distillery hybrid and has produced both alcoholic and THC-infused beverages. The owners aim to pass on their legacy and ensure continued operation under new ownership. No specific timeline was given for the sale.

Crescent Canna’s New Still Water Delivers THC with Zero Calories

🔗 My New Orleans

Crescent Canna has launched a new still water infused with 10 mg of hemp-derived THC and no calories. The product is manufactured at Crescent 9 THC Seltzer’s Baton Rouge facility. It joins the company’s growing line of cannabis-infused beverages aimed at health-conscious consumers. The new still water is compliant with the 2018 Farm Bill.

CBD Hemp-Based Beverages Market Expected to Achieve 18.2% CAGR with Innovations in Product Formulations and Distribution Models

🔗 Whatech

A new market research report forecasts the CBD and hemp-based beverage sector to grow at an 18.2% CAGR through the next several years. Growth is driven by product innovation, expanded distribution, and increased consumer interest in wellness. The report outlines emerging trends across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific. It also highlights key players in the industry and their strategic developments.