The market for THC-infused beverages has grown from a niche category into a diverse world of options. As a health-conscious consumer, knowing the different types of drinks available can help you find the perfect one for your desired experience. From the base beverage to the specific type of THC used, each factor contributes to a unique taste, feeling, and function.
This guide will break down the different ways you can break down these beverages, helping you navigate the choices with confidence and select the best THC drink for you!
Breaking It Down by Beverage Type
Just like the alcohol aisle, the THC beverage market offers a wide range of “formats” or drink types to suit any preference or fit any event! Here are some of the post common types of THC drink:
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Seltzers and Sparkling Waters: These are among the most popular choices for a light and refreshing experience. They are typically low in calories and sugar, with a crisp, clean finish that makes them perfect for sipping at social events or on a hot day. The bubbles help to quickly deliver the THC, contributing to a fast onset. This category is a favorite for those seeking an alternative to hard seltzers or beer.
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Juices and Sodas: For those who prefer a more traditional, sweeter drink, juices and sodas provide a familiar taste. These beverages often have a slightly thicker body and can be infused with classic fruit flavors or creative combinations. They offer a comforting experience and can feel like a nostalgic treat.
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Drink Enhancers and Mixers: These are a more recent innovation in the space. They come in the form of small, concentrated bottles or powders that can be mixed into any beverage of your choice. This provides ultimate flexibility, allowing you to turn any drink into a THC-infused one. They are often flavorless, so they won't interfere with your favorite juice, cocktail base, or even water.
Breaking It Down by Dosage
Dosing (or “level”) is perhaps the most important differentiator and the key to a positive first-time experience with any brand, especially for beginners. THC drinks can be broadly segmented into three main tiers of level or dosing.
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Microdoses (1-2.5mg): These are designed for a subtle, foundational feeling. At this level, the goal is not to feel a buzz, but to achieve a gentle sense of calm and well-being. This is an excellent starting point for new users or for daily, functional use of THC drinks. We actually started with a microdose option when we launched the 1mg Bimble, aiming to provide an easy way for you to try a THC drink for the first time!
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Low Doses (5mg): This is the most common and versatile dose. It's often referred to as a "social dose" because it provides a similar feeling of relaxation and sociability as a single glass of wine. It's the perfect choice for happy hours, dinner parties, or unwinding after a long day. Looking to try something in this vein? That’s why the 5mg Bimble exists!
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High Doses (10mg+): These doses are for experienced users who understand how THC affects their body. They provide a more pronounced and intense feeling and are typically reserved for a relaxed evening at home rather than a social setting.
Breaking It Down by THC Type
Beyond the physical dosage, the type of THC used in a beverage can significantly impact the experience.
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Delta-9 THC: This is the most common form of THC and the one found naturally in abundant quantities in the cannabis plant. It's the compound responsible for the classic cannabis buzz. Delta-9 products made from hemp are federally legal, and their effects are well-understood. Hemp-derived THC is the primary “active” ingredient in our drinks here at Bimble.
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Delta-8 THC: This is a minor cannabinoid that is often synthesized from CBD. Its effects are generally considered to be milder than those of Delta-9, but it is not as well-regulated and its effects have not been as extensively studied.
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Delta-10 THC: Similar to Delta-8, this is another minor cannabinoid. Its effects are often described as more uplifting and cerebral, but like Delta-8, it is synthetically produced and not as well-researched or regulated as hemp-derived Delta-9 THC.
For those seeking a trustworthy and reliable experience, it's generally recommended to stick with products that use well-understood, federally legal, hemp-derived Delta-9 THC.
Breaking It Down by Feeling and Social Function
Brands are increasingly designing their beverages to create a specific "feeling" or serve a particular social purpose. You'll find products marketed for:
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Relaxation and Calm: These beverages often contain a balance of THC and other cannabinoids like CBD to promote a sense of calm and ease. They are ideal for winding down in the evening or managing a stressful day.
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Creativity and Focus: Some drinks are formulated to enhance a state of "flow." They typically contain low doses of THC, sometimes combined with other functional ingredients, to help quiet the mind and allow for a more creative or focused experience.
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Social and Uplifting: These are designed to be enjoyed at parties or gatherings. Their dosage and flavor profiles are crafted to promote sociability and fun without leading to intoxication or a next-day hangover.
When choosing a THC beverage, consider the occasion you’re buying for!
If you're looking for a delightful alternative to your evening wine, or something to sip at a gathering that offers a delicious taste and a consistent, gentle buzz, a well-balanced seltzer or sparkling beverage is an excellent choice. Here at Bimble, we intentionally focus on delicious, natural flavors and a low-dose approach, because we have empirically found that to be an ideal option for anyone looking for an elegant, non-intoxicating experience. Our emphasis on clean, fresh flavors like Blueberry Lemon Ginger and Grapefruit Basil Mint is an attempt to speak directly to consumers who appreciate a high-quality beverage that also happens to provide a pleasant and controlled feeling.
By understanding these different types of THC-infused drinks, you are better equipped to find a beverage that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle, providing you with a smarter, more mindful way to sip and socialize.