What are hemp-infused beverages?
The beverage industry is evolving fast, and one of the biggest shifts happening right now is the rise of hemp-infused drinks. From sparkling seltzers to functional social beverages, hemp-derived drinks are becoming increasingly popular across Virginia — especially among consumers looking for alcohol alternatives, low-dose relaxation, and new social experiences.
At Honor Brewing Company, we’ve embraced this growing category with our hemp-infused beverage lineup, including the fan-favorite Silly Goose THC and Always Sunny CBD products. But many consumers still have questions:
What exactly are hemp-infused beverages?
Are they legal in Virginia?
Are they safe?
Where can they be sold?
Here’s everything Virginia consumers should know.
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A hemp-infused beverage is a drink made with cannabinoids derived from federally legal hemp plants. These beverages may contain ingredients such as CBD or low-dose hemp-derived THC, depending on state regulations.
Unlike traditional cannabis products sold in dispensaries, hemp-derived beverages are typically made under federal hemp guidelines established by the 2018 Farm Bill. These products contain hemp-derived cannabinoids while remaining below legal THC limits.
Many consumers describe hemp beverages as:
Light and approachable
Social alternatives to alcohol
Fast-acting compared to edibles
Lower-dose and more sessionable
Today’s market includes:
Sparkling waters
Seltzers
Functional wellness beverages
Non-alcoholic social drinks
Relaxation beverages
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Yes — compliant hemp-derived beverages are legal in Virginia, but they are heavily regulated.
According to the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS), hemp products sold in Virginia must meet strict THC limits and testing standards. Virginia law currently requires that hemp products:
Contain no more than 0.3% total THC
Contain no more than 2mg of THC per package unless specific CBD-to-THC ratios are met
Meet packaging, testing, and labeling requirements
Avoid synthetic cannabinoids
Virginia also requires many hemp retailers to register through VDACS if they sell regulated hemp products intended for human consumption.
This regulatory framework is designed to support consumer safety while allowing compliant hemp beverages to remain available in the marketplace.
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When purchased from reputable brands that prioritize compliance, lab testing, and transparent ingredients, hemp beverages can be a safe option for adult consumers.
Consumers should always look for:
Third-party lab testing
Clearly labeled cannabinoid content
Child-resistant packaging when required
Transparent ingredient sourcing
Products made by established beverage companies
Virginia regulators specifically require certificates of analysis from accredited laboratories for many hemp products sold at retail.
Like alcohol, consumers should enjoy hemp beverages responsibly and understand their own tolerance levels. Effects can vary based on:
Dosage
Body chemistry
Food intake
Experience with cannabinoids
For many adults, hemp beverages offer a lighter, more controlled alternative to traditional alcohol consumption.
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One reason hemp beverages have grown so quickly is accessibility.
Unlike cannabis dispensary products, compliant hemp-derived beverages may be sold in a variety of retail settings in Virginia, including:
Breweries
Taprooms
Bottle shops
Specialty beverage stores
Convenience stores
Grocery retailers
Wellness retailers
Online platforms (where permitted)
However, retailers must still comply with Virginia hemp regulations and product registration requirements.
Nationally, hemp beverages are becoming a major emerging beverage category, with breweries, beverage companies, and retailers increasingly entering the market.
Meet Honor Brewing’s Hemp Beverage Lineup
Silly Goose THC Beverage
Silly Goose was created for consumers looking for a fun, flavorful, easy-drinking social beverage experience. Crisp, refreshing, and approachable, it’s designed for laid-back nights, patio hangs, concerts, cookouts, and good company.
Always Sunny CBD Beverage
Always Sunny delivers bright flavor and a relaxed vibe inspired by easy summer afternoons and social occasions. It’s crafted for adults looking for a modern beverage alternative that fits today’s lifestyle trends.
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing alternative, a social beverage experience, or simply curious about the future of craft drinks, hemp-infused beverages are becoming a major part of Virginia’s beverage landscape.
To learn more about Honor Brewing’s hemp beverage offerings, visit: https://honorbrewing.com/honor-hemp