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The Shift Beyond Dry January: Embracing Mindful Consumption with THC Beverages

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Recap of Last Week

• Sustainability in Cannabis Cultivation: Highlighted the shift towards regenerative agriculture in the cannabis industry for its environmental and market benefits.

• Brand Differentiation and Consumer Appeal: Examined how sustainable cultivation methods allow cannabis brands to stand out and align with eco-conscious consumer values.

• Product Insights and Recipe Feature: Shared personal reviews of cannabis beverages from brands like Cann, North Canna Co., and Wynk, and included a unique cannabis-infused recipe for readers to try.

Turning a New Leaf: The Evolving Beverage Landscape

As February begins, we're observing a pivotal shift in the beverage industry. This year's Dry January not only highlighted the growing trend of mindful consumption but also marked a significant increase in the popularity of non-alcoholic and THC-infused beverages.

Deeper Dive into Industry Reports

A recent study by AMC Global reveals that 62% of alcohol consumers in 2024 are actively trying to limit their intake, mirroring a similar intention from the previous year. This ongoing trend underscores a sustained commitment to moderation, often motivated by health concerns. The rise of wellness culture and societal acceptance of sobriety are influencing these attitudes, with public figures sharing their sobriety journeys contributing to this change (amcglobal.com).

Synergy Flavors notes an increase in the use of mood-enhancing functional ingredients in non-alcoholic drinks. 82% of consumers express interest in functional ingredients, and this preference is driving innovation in the non-alcoholic beverage sector. Citrus flavors, perceived as refreshing and lively, are gaining popularity, indicating a focus on hydration and wellness. The growth of plant-based waters like coconut, aloe, and cactus water reflects this trend, with 60% of North American consumers citing health purposes for their consumption (synergytaste.com).

THC Beverages: A Boon in Mindful Consumption Trends

In line with these trends, THC beverages are emerging as a substitute. Exploding Topics reports that cannabis-infused drinks are seen as having the highest growth potential in the beverage industry. Brands are now offering non-alcoholic, cannabis-infused drinks that provide a light, mellow buzz, catering to the sober-curious and moderation-seeking consumers (explodingtopics.com).

In our previous exploration of the rise of THC beverages during Dry January, we unveiled a burgeoning trend. These unique drinks, known for their euphoric and relaxing effects, are increasingly becoming the go-to choice for many who are steering away from alcohol but still crave the social aspect of drinking. This trend dovetails with the concept of a 'damp lifestyle' — a movement focused on moderation and mindful consumption. In our article, we discussed how THC beverages not only cater to those avoiding alcohol but also offer an alternative social experience. This has positioned them perfectly within the growing demand for more health-conscious and responsible drinking options.

These cannabis gummies keep selling out in 2023

If you've ever struggled to enjoy cannabis due to the harshness of smoking or vaping, you're not alone. That’s why these new cannabis gummies caught our eye.

Mood is an online dispensary that has invented a “joint within a gummy” that’s extremely potent yet federally-legal. Their gummies are formulated to tap into the human body’s endocannabinoid system. 

Although this system was discovered in the 1990’s, farmers and scientists at Mood were among the first to figure out how to tap into it with cannabis gummies.

Just 1 of their rapid onset THC gummies can get you feeling right within 5 minutes! Order now

From Taprooms to Tabletops: THC Beverages Make Their On-Premise Mark

In recent years, the THC-infused beverage market has seen a remarkable rise, particularly in on-premise locations such as bars and restaurants. This trend is especially evident in areas like Minnesota and Chicago, where these beverages are not just additions to the menu but are becoming central to the drinking experience.

In Minnesota, the legalization of THC beverages in 2022 has led to their widespread availability in establishments where alcoholic beverages are sold. This move has been crucial in normalizing and integrating THC beverages into everyday social settings. Bars, coffee shops, and liquor stores have been expanding their menus to include THC-based food and beverages, responding to the increased consumer interest in cannabis-infused alternatives. For example, Minneapolis-based Surly Brewing Co. and other local manufacturers are benefiting from this boom, as well as national brands like Cann, which are shipping hemp-derived THC beverage products from Minnesota to consumers across the country.

Establishments in Minnesota are witnessing substantial sales from their THC beverage offerings. For instance, Lakes and Legends bar reported that about a third of their sales in the taproom come from their THC beverage, Hiii Water. This trend is not just limited to THC drinks; edibles, gummies, oils, and other THC products are also reaching store shelves, further expanding the range of available cannabis-infused products.

This burgeoning market is not without its challenges, as businesses must navigate complex regulations and public perception. However, the growing presence of THC beverages in social establishments is a clear indicator of their rising popularity and acceptance. As more consumers look for alternatives to alcohol, THC beverages are becoming a viable and popular option, likely to see continued growth and diversification in the future.

Interview with Laura Beohner

This week, I chatted with Laura Beohner of The Healing Rose, and it was quite the eye-opener on the impact of cannabinoid wellness. Laura's journey from tackling personal health challenges to leading a pioneering organic, cannabinoid-infused product line is truly inspiring. They're not just about selling; it's about shifting perspectives on health, wellness, and cannabis through a commitment to organic ingredients and innovative direct sales strategy during the pandemic. Dive into our conversation to see how The Healing Rose is blooming in the industry.

In My Bar

This week, I have really been taking a bit of a break from trying some new drinks. Over the coming weeks, I have a heavy content and recipe creation load to make a ton of new recipes over the next 2 weeks. This is why there is no recipe of the week this week. I will be unveiling a ton of new recipes over on my Instagram and my Tiktok.

However, I have been sticking with a few staples from Cann’s Roadie’s (HERBAL30 for 20% off your orders site wide) that elevated my mocktail game while hanging out at my parent’s house all weekend with my visiting nephew! Additionally, Wynk’s new Tangerine flavor was fueling my weekend as well!

High Spirits Awards: The first-ever competition exclusively for cannabinoid-infused beverages

The growing number of choices consumers face when shopping for infused beverages can be nothing short of daunting. High Spirits Awards, the first-ever professionally judged competition for cannabinoid-infused beverages, awards medals that help buyers choose the best products in this increasingly complex market.

The seals of approval that HSA’s medals represent aren’t only meant to guide consumers; they also help retailers identify products their customers will enjoy, make for more confident recommendations and buying decisions, and can open doors to investors and media attention, too.

High Spirits Awards has partnered with both the Cannabis Beverage Association and Hemp Beverage Alliance to offer their members a 10% discount on HSA entry fees.

More information about High Spirits Awards, as well as entry forms, can be found on the HSA website. The 2024 deadline for entries is February 21, with an Early Bird deadline of February 1 to enjoy further-reduced entry fees.

High Spirits Awards is open to all cannabis-derived beverage products legally sold in California and all hemp-derived (CBD/alternative cannabinoid) beverages from anywhere in the U.S.

Take Action In Florida

Florida residents, take action against HB1613 to protect local small businesses. Reach out to express your opposition by contacting Thad Altman at [email protected] or calling 850-717-5032. Let them know you say "No to HB1613" and stand with the small business community. Your voice matters, make it heard through a call or email.

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