Bye-Bye Booze, Hello Buds: Why More People Are Swapping Alcohol for Cannabis

TLDR: Americans are rapidly ditching booze for cannabis.

Whether it's THC-infused sleepy girl mocktails before bed or a summer barbeque where half the party-goers are holding cannabis drinks instead of beer, it's hard to ignore what's happening. Perhaps for the first time ever in modern history — people are choosing to infuse their lives with cannabis rather than alcohol.

And, it isn't just a generalization; it's playing out in the numbers. In 2022, approximately 17.7 million Americans reported enjoying cannabis daily or near daily. This is compared to 14.7 million who reported the same frequency of drinking alcohol. 

Since cannabis has become socially accepted (thanks in no small part to the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized national access to hemp-derived options), the per capita rate of cannabis consumption has increased nearly fifteenfold since 1992. 

Although this cannabis-loving shift is playing out among nearly every generation, this trend is most apparent with Generation Z. For starters, the youngest (legal drinking age) consumers are turning to alcohol less often than the generations before them. When they do drink, it's far less.

Then, when they do choose to imbibe, Gen Z prefers cannabis. Another 2022 survey discovered that 69 percent of people between the ages of 18 and 24 prefer cannabis to booze (this survey did not account for the fact that the legal age of consumption for cannabis and alcohol is typically 21+).

As one expert explained, because it is a younger demographic delving into cannabis, “this trend will continue for decades.” 

The California Sober trend is a loose way to describe a lifestyle that abstains from alcohol but allows for some softer social lubricants, like cannabis. The Guardian explained that people “may not be “capital S” sober, but they’re using the California sober life choice as a method of harm reduction.”

Whatever the reasoning for choosing cannabis vs alcohol in their own lives, this movement has made its way into the cultural zeitgeist. From Demi Lovato speaking about it in her Dancing with the Devil documentary to Post Malone releasing “California Sober,” don’t be surprised if someone says they are California Sober at the next party you attend.

Note: We do not condone or advise the consumption or purchase of any illicit/controlled substances. 

Another factor contributing to the shift away from alcohol is that many people are just trying to establish healthier habits. After all, alcohol, even in moderation, is not a healthy option, no matter which way you slice it. 

As per the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol "has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer decades ago – this is the highest risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation, and tobacco."

As we all become more thoughtful about what we put into our bodies, these increasing health concerns about alcohol are hard to ignore. Which is why so many Americans are now abstaining or reducing their alcohol consumption. When polled on why they’d chosen not to drink, 56 percent of Americans said they simply didn't want to, but a full 51 percent cited health concerns.

Although these two libations may seem very similar at first glance, they are, in fact, very different.

First, if it's not clear already, cannabis and alcohol are two distinct things with very different effects on the body and mind. Cannabis contains cannabinoids, primarily THC and CBD, which interact with the body's endocannabinoid system. Called the ECS for short, this vast network of chemical messengers and receptors plays a role in vital functions like sleep, hunger, pain perception, and memory. 

These plant compounds produce various effects as they bind to the cannabinoid receptors in the ECS, including relaxation, euphoria, and heightened sensations. Thanks to research into these cannabinoids, the wellness potential of cannabis is being increasingly validated. Hence, why medical marijuana is legal in many states and hundreds of clinical trials are in the works.

Alcohol, on the other hand, is a depressant that affects the central nervous system, reducing inhibitions and impairing cognitive function. Chronic alcohol use is associated with liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and increased cancer risk.

The WHO didn't mince words when it stated, "Alcohol is a toxic, psychoactive, and dependence-producing substance."

Again, this isn't to say there aren't any side effects with cannabis. Effects vary from person to person, and it's always important to make informed decisions based on your own circumstances. And just because there are wellness applications for cannabis doesn’t mean we’re claiming our products are intended to treat or cure any condition. We make high-quality, legal edibles- not medicine. Anyways…

Our fast-acting THC Drink Mixes are ready to go when you are. Unlike traditional edibles, these drink enhancers deliver effects in less than half an hour and are the pinnacle of innovation. They easily mix into a glass of water or a bubbly, so stash a few in your pocket for the next time you want to socialize but without the booze. Available in 3 tropical flavors, each packet is packed with hydrating electrolytes, energizing B12, and 15mg of nano-emulsified delta-9 THC.

This is a THC-infused alternative for all mixologists. Our Agave THC Syrup contains the perfect serving of 5mg of nano-emulsified, fast-acting THC per teaspoon- or 15mg per tablespoon. This is a great alternative to have on hand when you’d prefer a mocktail over a cocktail—just use it instead of simple syrup!

And when it's not time for cocktail hour, this product is also a great addition to your coffee as a sweetener or even spooned over pancakes. The ways to use THC syrup are truly endless!

Our Delta-8 THC tinctures are available in three tasty flavors (including natural for those who appreciate the clean, earthy taste). Whether you take a few drops directly under your tongue or add a few to your favorite warm beverage, cannabis tinctures are an excellent way to relax and unwind without beer, wine, or spirits. Each bottle contains 600 mg of delta-8, delivered via a measuring dropper into the perfect small, medium, or large serving.

Our Kava + THC Dark Chocolate Bars bring yet another alcohol alternative to the table: kava. This mellow, relaxing, and social botanical has a long history of use across the South Pacific, and it's increasingly becoming a choice among those purposefully ditching booze yet still wanting a bit of a social libation. 

This smooth, dark chocolate treat contains kava and delta-9 THC for a double onset of mood-uplifting effects. Each bar is divided into precise squares for easy serving.

Note: This product is only available on a seasonal basis. 

Cannabis is offering us a new way to relax and socialize—and the numbers prove that buds instead of booze are becoming an increasingly popular swap. Relaxing for our mind, body, and soul yet hangover-free, it maybe shouldn’t be surprising to see more cannabis at parties and in nightcaps. 

Thanks to cannabis, it's easier than ever to replace alcohol in our lives without missing out on the good vibes and connections. 

Until the next party, Happy Exploring and Mind Your Mind.