As Dry January gets underway, many Americans who pledged to avoid alcohol for the month are discovering that the commitment can be harder than expected. Even people without problematic drinking habits often associate alcohol with relaxation, socializing and unwinding after a long day. Breaking those routines—especially in the middle of winter—can take real resolve.
That challenge has helped fuel growing interest in THC-infused beverages as an alternative to beer, wine and cocktails. Cannabis drinks, which have expanded rapidly in legal markets, are increasingly marketed as a way to replicate the ritual and mild euphoria of alcohol without the hangovers or next-day regrets. While they don’t perfectly mimic the effects of a few margaritas, many consumers say the drinks offer stress relief and a gentle buzz that fits neatly into an alcohol-free month.
Several brands are leaning into the Dry January moment with low- and mid-dose options designed for social settings. Cann’s Social Tonics, for example, feature flavors like Grapefruit Rosemary, Blood Orange Cardamom and Lemon Lavender, with THC levels ranging from 2 milligrams to 10 milligrams per can. Other companies, such as Out of Office, focus on crisp, cocktail-inspired profiles like Cucumber Melon Lime, offered in a range of dosages to suit different tolerance levels.
Some producers are also blending THC with functional ingredients. Upstate Elevator’s Yuzu Lemonade Spritz pairs 10 milligrams of delta-9 THC with adaptogens like magnesium, GABA and L-theanine, aiming to create a smoother, more balanced experience. Vena’s Happy Tonix Skinny Mocktails take a lower-dose approach, with just 2 milligrams of THC per can, targeting consumers who want subtle effects alongside familiar mocktail flavors like Margarita, Mojito and Citrus Spritz.
Others are experimenting with cannabis-adjacent botanicals. BRĒZ tonics incorporate lion’s mane mushroom extract, which the company says promotes focus and creativity alongside a noticeable buzz. Meanwhile, ultra-light seltzers combining THC and CBD—often around 2 milligrams of each—are gaining traction among beginners who want to sip casually without overdoing it.
As THC beverages become more mainstream, experts continue to stress moderation and awareness, noting that effects can vary and legality differs by state. Still, for those navigating Dry January, cannabis drinks are emerging as a popular way to keep the ritual of a drink in hand—without the alcohol—until February rolls around.
Read the whole article from Vice here.
