Quick answer: THC beer is non-alcoholic beer infused with hemp-derived delta-9 THC instead of alcohol. THC drinks such as THC tonics and seltzers work the same way. Most people feel a can within about 15 to 30 minutes, and the buzz usually lasts 2 to 4 hours. Start with half a can, wait 30 minutes, and never mix THC drinks with alcohol or driving.
THC drinks are one of the fastest-growing ways to enjoy THC. They keep the ritual of cracking a cold one with friends, without the alcohol or the hangover. Here is how they work and how to start.
What is THC beer?
THC beer starts as real beer. The brewer removes the alcohol, then adds a small, measured amount of delta-9 THC. You get the look, smell and taste of beer, with a THC buzz in place of alcohol.
Other THC drinks skip the beer. THC tonics, seltzers and sodas use flavored sparkling water as the base. Both types are sold by the can, and each can has a set amount of THC listed on its lab report.
How THC drinks are made
THC is an oil, and oil and water don’t mix. Drink makers solve this with an emulsion: they break the THC into tiny droplets and coat them so they spread evenly through the drink. That is why each sip has the same amount, and why many drinks kick in faster than gummies.
How long does a THC drink take to kick in?
| Type | Typical time to feel it | Typical length |
|---|---|---|
| THC drinks | About 15 to 30 minutes | 2 to 4 hours |
| THC gummies | About 30 to 90 minutes | 4 to 6 hours or more |
| Smoked THCA flower | A few minutes | 2 to 4 hours |
Everyone is different. A full stomach can slow things down, and your first time may feel stronger than you expect.
How to dose your first THC drink
- Check the THC per can on the product’s lab results.
- Start with half a can, or a single can if it is a low dose.
- Wait at least 30 minutes before drinking more.
- Sip it like a beer, not like a shot.
- Don’t mix with alcohol. Alcohol can make THC hit harder.
- Never drive after a THC drink.
THC beer vs THCA flower vs gummies
| Good for | Watch out for | |
|---|---|---|
| THC beer and drinks | Social, beer-like ritual; even dose per can; no smoke | Takes a bit to kick in; bulkier to store and ship |
| THCA flower | Fast; you control each hit; widest choice of strains | Smoke; smell |
| THC gummies | Easy to dose; discreet; long-lasting | Slowest to kick in, so easy to take too much |
New to THC flower? Start with What Is THCA Flower? or browse our THC edibles.
THC beer and drinks we carry
- Papa’s Lucky Lager THC Beer: a light, crisp American-style lager.
- Papa’s Sticky IPA THC Beer: piney, citrusy hops with a dry finish.
- TKO THC Tonic, Citra Squeeze: grapefruit and lime sparkling tonic.
- TKO THC Tonic, Tropical Mosaic: mango, pineapple and citrus.
Each product page lists the THC per can from its latest lab report. THC drinks follow our edibles shipping rules, and checkout tells you if your state can’t receive them.
Are THC drinks legal?
Hemp-derived delta-9 drinks have been sold under the 2018 Farm Bill, and state rules vary. Federal rules for hemp drinks change on December 11, 2026, when a 0.4 mg total THC per container cap takes effect. Read The 2026 Hemp Ban for details.
THC beer FAQ
Does THC beer have alcohol?
No. THC beer is non-alcoholic beer with THC added in place of alcohol.
Will THC beer show up on a drug test?
Yes, it can. It contains delta-9 THC, which standard drug tests look for. See Does THCA Show Up on a Drug Test?
How many THC drinks should I have?
Start with half a can and wait 30 minutes. Many people find one can is plenty.
Can I mix THC drinks with alcohol?
We don’t recommend it. Alcohol can make THC feel much stronger.
How should I store THC drinks?
Keep them cold and out of direct sunlight, like regular beer, and out of reach of kids and pets.
For adults 21+. Don’t drive or operate machinery after drinking THC.
