Your ultimate guide to cannabis beverages and weed drinks in Canada with expert recommendations for every preference and budget
What Are Cannabis Beverages? Understanding Weed Drinks in Canada
Cannabis beverages have rapidly evolved to become one of the most innovative and accessible ways to consume cannabis in Canada. These weed drinks infuse THC, CBD, or a combination of cannabinoids into various liquid formats – from sodas and seltzers to teas and tonics. Unlike traditional consumption methods like smoking or vaping, cannabis beverages offer precise dosing, faster onset times thanks to advanced emulsion technologies, and a familiar consumption experience that integrates seamlessly into social settings.
As the Canadian cannabis beverage market continues to mature, we’ve seen remarkable improvements in taste, effect consistency, and variety. But with so many options available, finding your ideal cannabis drink can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the world of weed drinks and discover products that match your preferences, whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned enthusiast.
The History of Cannabis Beverages in Canada: From Legalization to Mainstream
Cannabis beverages entered the legal Canadian market relatively recently, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of cannabis consumption. While dried flower and oils were legalized in October 2018 with the Cannabis Act, cannabis-infused beverages weren’t permitted until the “Cannabis 2.0” regulations came into effect in October 2019, with products hitting shelves in January 2020.
When these beverages first launched, they represented just 1.8 percent of the total cannabis market share. By 2021, this had grown to 2.1 percent, and the category has continued its upward trajectory since then. This growth reflects increasing consumer acceptance and manufacturer innovation, despite the challenges of working within Canada’s strict regulatory framework.
Early cannabis beverages often struggled with issues like inconsistent effects, unpleasant tastes, and high prices. The average cannabis drink initially cost around $16.21 per unit in 2020, but within just one year, prices dropped dramatically by 146 percent to approximately $6.58. Today, most weed drinks hover around the $6 mark, making them far more accessible to the average consumer.
This price reduction coincided with significant improvements in formulation technology. Early beverages were notorious for their strong cannabis taste and delayed, unpredictable effects. Today’s beverages leverage advanced emulsion technologies that create more stable, better-tasting products with faster onset times and more reliable experiences.
Canadian Cannabis Drink Regulations vs. US Market: Understanding the Differences
The cannabis beverage market’s development in Canada has been shaped significantly by regulations that differ markedly from the fragmented approach in the United States. Under the Cannabis Act, Health Canada limits all cannabis beverages to a maximum of 10mg THC per package, regardless of the container size or number of servings. This creates a stark contrast with some U.S. states, where beverages can contain up to 100mg THC per package.
A significant regulatory change came in December 2022, when the federal government approved an update to how cannabis content in beverages is calculated. This change shifted the equivalency rate from 70 grams of cannabis beverage equaling one gram of dried cannabis to 570 grams of cannabis beverage equaling one gram of dried cannabis. In practical terms, this meant Canadians could now legally purchase and possess 48 standard-sized cannabis drinks at once, up from the previous limit of just 5 drinks. This adjustment directly addressed a major barrier to market growth, as consumers previously faced severe purchase limitations compared to other cannabis products.
Despite this positive regulatory shift, the overall market remains constrained. As of early 2025, the Canadian cannabis beverage market continues to grow but remains smaller than its U.S. counterpart. In 2023, cannabis beverages accounted for just 3% of the Canadian cannabis market, compared to the larger market shares enjoyed by traditional products like flower and edibles. By May 2025, this market share has shown encouraging growth as consumers become more comfortable with these innovative products. By May 2025, this market share has shown encouraging growth as consumers become more comfortable with these innovative products.
Canadian regulations also heavily restrict advertising and promotion of cannabis products, making it difficult for beverage brands to market their offerings as effectively as their American counterparts. The strict packaging requirements – which mandate child-resistant containers, limited branding, and prominent health warnings – further differentiate the Canadian market.
Despite these challenges, major mainstream brands have recognized the potential of the cannabis beverage market. Companies like Molson Coors (through the Truss Beverage Co. joint venture, producing Mollo), Constellation Brands (partnered with Canopy Growth), and Jones Soda (with their Mary Jones line) have entered the space, legitimizing cannabis beverages and bringing established beverage expertise to cannabis formulations.
Types of Cannabis Beverages Available in Canada: From Seltzers to Teas
The Canadian market offers a diverse array of cannabis beverage options to suit various preferences:
Cannabis Seltzers and Sodas
Carbonated beverages infused with cannabis represent the largest segment of the market. Brands offer everything from classic cola flavours to creative fruit combinations. These typically contain 2-5mg THC per can, with some offering balanced THC ratios.
Cannabis Teas and Coffees
For those who prefer a warm beverage experience, cannabis-infused teas and coffees provide a comforting way to consume cannabinoids. These often feature CBD-dominant or balanced formulations for a gentler experience.
Energy and Sports Drinks
Performance-focused beverages combine cannabinoids with ingredients like caffeine, vitamins, or electrolytes. These products typically target active consumers looking for functional benefits alongside their cannabis experience.
Cannabis Tonics and Elixirs
Concentrated drink formulations that can be consumed straight or mixed with other beverages. These often feature botanical ingredients and sophisticated flavour profiles.
Drink Enhancers and Powders
Water-soluble cannabis powders and liquid enhancers allow consumers to infuse their preferred beverages with cannabinoids, offering maximum flexibility.
How Cannabis Drinks Work: The Science Behind Fast-Acting Weed Beverages
Cannabis beverages represent one of the most technologically advanced segments of the cannabis market. Unlike traditional edibles that can take 60-90 minutes to take effect, many cannabis drinks utilize nano-emulsion technology that can reduce onset time to as little as 10-15 minutes.
Nano-emulsion breaks down cannabis oil into microscopic particles surrounded by an emulsifier, making them water-compatible and more readily absorbed by the body. This technology not only accelerates the onset of effects but also improves their predictability and consistency.
The effects of cannabis beverages typically last 2-4 hours – generally shorter than traditional edibles but longer than smoking or vaping. This duration makes them ideal for social occasions where consumers want a controlled experience without committing to effects that last all day.
Most cannabis beverages in Canada contain either pure distillate (for a clean, precise THC or CBD experience) or full-spectrum extracts (which preserve more of the plant’s terpenes and minor cannabinoids for a more nuanced effect profile).
What to Look for When Buying Weed Drinks: Expert Shopping Guide
When selecting cannabis beverages, consider these key factors:
Dosage and Onset Time
For beginners, products with 2-2.5mg THC per serving provide a gentle introduction. More experienced users might prefer options with 5-10mg THC. Look for information about the technology used – nano-emulsified beverages typically take effect faster than conventional formulations.
Cannabinoid Profile
Beyond just THC content, consider the ratio of different cannabinoids. Some beverages offer:
- THC-dominant (primarily psychoactive effects)
- CBD-dominant (minimal intoxication, focus on wellness)
- Balanced ratios like 1:1 or 2:1 THC (more moderate, balanced effects)
- Specialty formulations with minor cannabinoids like CBG or CBN
Ingredients and Flavour
The best cannabis beverages use high-quality ingredients with natural flavours that complement rather than mask the cannabis. Consider sugar content, calorie count, and whether the product contains artificial sweeteners or flavours based on your preferences.
Production Method
Some beverages use distillate for a clean, consistent experience, while others use full-spectrum or solventless extracts that preserve more of the original plant compounds. Neither is inherently better – it depends on whether you prefer a straightforward THC experience or the entourage effect from multiple cannabis compounds.
How to Enjoy Cannabis Beverages: Tips for the Best Experience
To get the most out of your cannabis beverage experience:
Serve at the Proper Temperature
Most cannabis drinks taste best when properly chilled. Nano-emulsified products in particular can have a slightly bitter note that’s less noticeable when cold.
Consider Food Pairing
Consuming cannabis beverages with fatty foods can enhance absorption and potentially extend the duration of effects. Light snacks like nuts, cheese, or avocado can be perfect companions.
Start Low and Go Slow
Even with faster-acting beverages, it’s wise to start with a low dose (2.5mg or less for beginners) and wait at least 30-45 minutes before considering additional consumption.
Create Cannabis Mocktails
Many cannabis beverages can serve as mixers for sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktails. Experiment with adding fresh fruit, herbs, or other non-alcoholic mixers to create custom cannabis concoctions.
Why Choose Weed Drinks Over Other Products?
Cannabis beverages offer several distinct advantages:
Precise Dosing
Each beverage contains a consistent, precisely measured amount of cannabinoids, making it easy to control your experience.
Smoke-Free Consumption
For those who don’t enjoy smoking or vaping, beverages provide a lung-friendly alternative.
Faster Onset Than Traditional Edibles
Advanced formulations take effect much quicker than conventional edibles, reducing the risk of accidental overconsumption.
Social Integration
Drinking a cannabis beverage can feel more natural in social settings where others might be consuming alcohol.
Discreet Format
Cannabis beverages often look similar to their non-infused counterparts, offering discretion for consumers who prefer privacy.
The Best Cannabis Drinks in Canada: Top Products for 2025
After testing dozens of cannabis beverages available in the Canadian market, we’ve curated this selection of standout products that represent the best in quality, flavour, effect, and innovation in 2025. These premium cannabis drinks showcase the incredible diversity now available to Canadian consumers.
Premium Craft Cocktails
Emerald Hour Live Rosin Margarita
Format: 222ml cocktail-inspired beverage Cannabinoids: 10mg THC from live rosin and diamonds Flavour Profile: Agave, lime, and sea salt Experience: Sophisticated mocktail experience
Emerald Hour makes elevated alternatives to familiar classics. Their Agave, Lime, and Sea Salt recipe is an expertly crafted mocktail infused with 10mg of THC sourced from live rosin and diamonds. A classic best served on the rocks with salt on the rim, this premium beverage delivers a sophisticated cannabis experience with minimal cannabis taste. The live rosin extraction preserves the natural terpene profile for a more nuanced effect than typical distillate beverages.
Emerald Hour Live Rosin Cosmopolitan
Format: 222ml cocktail-inspired beverage Cannabinoids: 10mg THC from live rosin and diamonds Flavour Profile: Cranberry and citrus Experience: Balanced, metropolitan classic
Emerald Hour’s Cranberry and Citrus recipe is an expertly crafted beverage infused with 10mg of THC sourced from live rosin and cannabis diamonds. This metropolitan classic has a natural cranberry tartness balanced perfectly with a citrus finish. The premium ingredients and sophisticated flavour profile make this an ideal choice for cannabis consumers looking for an elevated beverage experience. Perfect for social occasions where you’d normally enjoy a traditional cocktail.
Innovative Cannabinoid Blends
Sweet Justice Sugar-Free Glazed Donut Cream Soda (THC)
Format: 355ml carbonated beverage Cannabinoids: 10mg THC + 10mg CBG (1:1 ratio) Flavour Profile: Glazed donut cream soda Experience: Energizing and uplifting
This innovative ZERO-sugar donut Cream Soda combines the flavours of an old-fashioned, doughy treat with a classic diner beverage. Indulge in rich sweetness and bubbly nostalgia with an added creamy finish. With only 10 calories and a 1:1 dose of 10mg THC and 10mg CBG, this beverage offers a unique experience different from standard THC drinks. CBG (cannabigerol) is known for its energizing and uplifting effects, making this a perfect daytime option that won’t weigh you down with sugar or calories.
Energy-Boosting Cannabis Beverages
Versus Neon Rush Phantom Dark
Format: 355ml carbonated energy drink Cannabinoids: 10mg THC Caffeine: 30mg Flavour Profile: Dark fruit and citrus Experience: Energizing and uplifting
Experience Versus Neon Rush Phantom Dark, the supercharged beverage with big, bold, dark fruit and citrus flavours. With almost no cannabis taste or smell and powered by S?RSE® cannabis emulsion technology for fast onset, this beverage combines the benefits of cannabis with a moderate energy boost. Packed with 10mg THC and a jolt of 30mg caffeine, this deviously dark fruit beverage brings the bold, tangy flavour you crave without the jitters of traditional energy drinks.
Versus Neon Rush Original
Format: 355ml carbonated energy drink Cannabinoids: 10mg THC Caffeine: 30mg Flavour Profile: Bold citrus (similar to Mountain Dew) Experience: Uplifting and focused
Neon Rush Original is an electrifying carbonated soda with big, bold citrus flavours reminiscent of Mountain Dew. Made with S?RSE® emulsion technology, this bubbly sweet beverage delivers a consistent 10mg of THC and 30mg of caffeine, with almost no cannabis aftertaste. The combination creates a balanced experience that provides mental clarity and energy without the anxiousness sometimes associated with caffeine alone. Perfect for creative projects or active days.
Versus Neon Rush Cali Blast
Format: 355ml carbonated energy drink Cannabinoids: 10mg THC Caffeine: 30mg Flavour Profile: Tropical lime Experience: Vibrant and energizing
Versus Neon Rush Cali Blast combines tropical and lime flavours in an energizing cannabis beverage. Made with S?RSE® cannabis emulsion technology which delivers a consistent onset with almost no cannabis taste or smell. Containing 10mg of THC and 30mg of caffeine, this tropical-lime carbonated beverage tastes big, bold, and sweet while providing a gentle lift that’s perfect for daytime adventures.
Premium Craft Cannabis Sodas
Slurmmm Lemon Lime Live Rosin Soda
Format: Carbonated craft soda Cannabinoids: 10mg THC from live rosin Flavour Profile: Zesty lemon-lime Experience: Traditional cannabis strain effects
Slurmmm’s first-ever nano-emulsified whole plant fresh frozen rosin drink represents the pinnacle of craft cannabis beverages. This BC legacy brand has paired their highly sought-after legacy genetics live rosin terpenes with a delicious lemon-lime soda for a truly authentic cannabis experience. Unlike distillate-based beverages, this live rosin soda captures the full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes from Slurmmm’s premium genetics. As an old-school legacy brand from BC known for high-quality solventless products, Slurmmm brings credibility and expertise to the beverage category.
Blood Orange, Yuzu & Vanilla Sparkling Juice By Collective Project
Format: Sparkling juice beverage Cannabinoids: 10mg THC Flavour Profile: Citrus and vanilla Experience: Balanced and uplifting
Tried and true, this sophisticated beverage has big citrusy notes of Blood Orange and Yuzu, beautifully blended with vanilla. With complementary citrus terpenes added to round out the flavourful profile, this craft drink delivers an exceptional taste experience. Made with high-quality, fast-acting cannabis emulsion, it offers quick onset and predictable effects. The complex flavour profile makes this an excellent choice for those who appreciate culinary-inspired cannabis products.
Balanced THC Options
Sweet Justice Pacific Island Punch
Format: Fruit punch beverage Cannabinoids: 10mg THC + 5mg CBD (2:1 ratio) Flavour Profile: Tropical fruit medley Experience: Balanced and functional
Pacific Island Punch offers a zesty, South Pacific citrus taste that packs a mouth-watering punch of sweet lime, sour orange, sweet mango, and passionfruit. Crafted with real juice and nano-infused for fast onset, this beverage features a thoughtful 2:1 blend of 10mg THC and 5mg CBD designed to keep you in the flow. The addition of CBD helps moderate the THC effects, creating a more balanced experience that’s less likely to overwhelm, making this an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced consumers. A vibrant, zesty, sunshine-laden fruit basket for your tastebuds!
How Long Do Cannabis Beverages Last? Shelf Life and Duration of Effects
Cannabis beverages typically have a shelf life of 6-12 months when unopened, though this varies by formulation and packaging. Once opened, they should generally be consumed within 24-48 hours for optimal flavour and potency.
The effects of cannabis beverages typically last 2-4 hours, though this varies based on individual factors like metabolism, tolerance, and whether you’ve consumed food. This shorter duration (compared to traditional edibles) makes beverages particularly suitable for social occasions or when you don’t want effects to persist all day.
The Delicious Future of Cannabis Drinks
Cannabis beverages represent one of the most exciting innovations in Canada’s legal cannabis market. Their precise dosing, faster onset times, and familiar consumption format make them an excellent option for both newcomers and experienced cannabis consumers looking for alternatives to smoking or traditional edibles.
While Canada’s regulatory environment has created certain limitations compared to the U.S. market, it has also ensured that products meet strict safety standards and encouraged innovation within those parameters. As technology continues to improve and consumer awareness grows, we expect to see continued expansion of this category with even more sophisticated offerings.
Shop for cannabis beverages at THC Canada’s South Vancouver and Whistler locations, or check out our full selection online for convenient delivery options throughout BC.
Visit THC Canada for British Columbia’s best selection of cannabis beverages. Find us at our South Vancouver location (6416 Main Street in the Punjabi Market) or our Whistler location (4368 Main Street). Both locations offer free parking and same-day delivery options.
Cannabis Beverage FAQs
What is Nano Emulsion in Cannabis Drinks?
Nano emulsion is an advanced technology that breaks down cannabis oil particles to microscopic size (typically 20-200 nanometres), allowing them to disperse evenly in water-based liquids. This process significantly improves absorption by increasing the surface area of cannabinoid particles and helping them bypass first-pass metabolism in the liver. For consumers, this means faster onset times (often 10-15 minutes versus 60-90 minutes for traditional edibles), more predictable effects, and better bioavailability—your body can utilize more of the cannabinoids in the product. This technology is what makes cannabis beverages a distinct experience from other edibles, offering a more controlled and responsive effect profile.
Are cannabis drinks legal to consume in public in Canada?
Cannabis consumption laws vary by province and municipality. Generally, cannabis cannot be consumed in places where smoking tobacco is prohibited. Check local regulations before consuming in public spaces.
How many cannabis drinks can I legally purchase at once?
Since the 2022 regulatory update, consumers can now purchase up to 48 standard-sized cannabis beverages at once, as the equivalency rate changed from 70 grams to 570 grams of cannabis beverage equaling one gram of dried cannabis. This is a significant improvement from the previous limit of just 5 drinks.
Can I mix cannabis beverages with alcohol?
Health experts and cannabis professionals strongly advise against mixing cannabis and alcohol, as their combined effects can be unpredictable and potentially unpleasant.
Do cannabis drinks cause the same “high” as smoking?
While the active compounds are the same, the experience often differs. Beverages typically produce a more gradual onset with effects that feel more balanced and less intense than smoking, though this depends on dosage and formulation.
Why is the THC limit capped at 10mg per beverage in Canada?
This limit was established under the Cannabis Act regulations to minimize risks associated with overconsumption. While some consumers may desire higher potency options (which are available in some U.S. states), the 10mg cap helps ensure predictable effects and safer experiences, particularly for newcomers to cannabis.
Will cannabis drinks show up on a drug test?
Yes, consuming THC-containing beverages can result in positive drug tests for cannabis, potentially for several days or longer depending on frequency of use and test sensitivity.
Can I travel with cannabis drinks?
Cannabis beverages can be transported within Canada in accordance with possession laws, but cannot legally cross international borders, even to destinations where cannabis is legal locally.