Craft Breweries and THC Drinks: A Glimpse into the Future of Craft Beer

The craft beer industry is known for its innovation, community focus, and dedication to quality. As craft breweries continue to evolve, a new frontier is opening up: THC-infused beverages. This emerging trend has the potential to support and transform the future of craft beer. Let’s dive into how craft breweries are embracing THC drinks and why this could be a game-changer for the industry. We had a chance to speak with Bret Kollmann Baker, COO and owner at Urban Artifact about how his brewery is learning the ropes of creating THC-based beverages.

THC Beverages: The New Frontier

Legal Loopholes and Opportunities

Bret, a brewery owner and co-author of Tanked in Cincinnati, describes the current landscape as "the wild west." Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal on a federal level. This regulation allows craft breweries to create beverages that contain enough THC to have a psychoactive effect while remaining within legal limits.

The process involves extracting THC from large quantities of hemp and concentrating it into a beverage. As Bret says in the podcast, "point three percent on a liquid basis...is way more," allowing these drinks to have substantial THC content. This loophole enables breweries to sell THC beverages outside of dispensaries, making them available in grocery stores, corner stores, and gas stations.

Cultural Shift and Market Potential

Bret Kollmann Baker.

One of the most exciting aspects of THC beverages is their potential to bring a cultural shift. Imagine going to a bar where you can choose between a traditional beer and a THC drink. This inclusivity can cater to people who prefer cannabis over alcohol, allowing friends with different preferences to enjoy a night out together.

Bret envisions a future where THC beverages are as common in bars and restaurants as beer. This shift would not only normalize THC consumption but also support these establishments by attracting a broader customer base. The integration of THC drinks into the craft beer scene is about offering more choices and enhancing social experiences.

Supporting the Craft Beer Industry

Expanding Customer Base

THC beverages can attract new customers to craft breweries. As Bret points out, different events and demographics show varying preferences for alcohol and THC. For instance, while jam bands might prefer alcohol, metal shows could see higher THC drink sales. Offering both options allows breweries to cater to diverse audiences, thereby increasing overall sales and foot traffic.

Navigating Regulations and Health Considerations

While the potential is significant, breweries must navigate regulations and health considerations. Hemp-derived THC allows breweries to bypass some of the stringent controls that come with full recreational THC products, which can only be sold in dispensaries. This flexibility is crucial for craft breweries looking to expand into the THC market without being restricted by location.

However, safety is paramount. Unlike alcohol, THC doesn't have preservative properties, so breweries need to ensure their products are safe for consumption. With proper precautions, craft breweries can successfully integrate THC beverages into their offerings, ensuring both quality and safety.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The economic benefits for the craft beer industry are clear. By diversifying their product lines, breweries can tap into the rapidly growing cannabis market. This move not only boosts sales but also helps breweries stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market.

Culturally, the integration of THC drinks can lead to a more inclusive and versatile social scene. As Bret notes, the ability to enjoy different intoxicants in the same venue without compromising the experience is a significant cultural shift. This inclusivity can foster a more accepting and diverse community around craft beer and cannabis.

Conclusion

The intersection of craft beer and THC beverages represents a promising frontier for the industry. By embracing THC drinks, craft breweries can expand their customer base, navigate evolving regulations, and contribute to a cultural shift towards more inclusive social experiences. As this trend continues to grow, it holds the potential to support and transform the future of craft beer, ensuring its relevance and vibrancy for years to come.