Cannabis beverages: 8 things you should know
By SQDC.ca | Published on July 29, 2021 | Edited on May 15, 2026
Cannabis beverages have been available for purchase at the SQDC since January 1st, 2020. Even though this product category only represents a fraction of the products sold in-store and online, it does raise many questions.
To help you better understand the characteristics of cannabis beverages, we have the answers to the eight most frequently asked questions about these products.
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SUMMARY
- What is a cannabis beverage?
- How are they made?
- What do they taste like?
- How should cannabis beverages be safely stored?
- What is the cannabinoid concentration in cannabis beverages?
- Is drinking cannabis safer than smoking it?
- Do cannabis beverages and alcohol mix well?
- How many beverages can I buy in one visit?
- Responsible consumption advice
What are cannabis beverages?
These are beverages infused with one or many cannabis extracts. They therefore include different levels of THC, CBD, or sometimes they can also include other minor cannabinoids. There are different types of cannabis beverages available for purchase: canned or bottled ready-to-drinks, or tea packets for infusion by the consumer.
How are cannabis beverages made?
Preparing cannabis beverages is not simple. The first step is extracting the plant’s active compounds, namely cannabinoids, using a solvent-based chemical process1. The resulting extract, which is not naturally water-soluble, must then be emulsified to allow it to mix evenly and become homogeneous.
The mixture is then added to either carbonated or still water to create the beverage. Once this process is complete, the drink is bottled and ready to consume.
The production of infusions, such as cannabis tea or herbal infusions, follows a similar principle: a cannabis emulsion is produced and infused into a blend of leaves, which is then packaged. The beverage is then prepared like any standard tea or infusion.
Learn more about types of cannabis extracts.
1 In the regulated market, cannabis beverages are most commonly made using distillate, but other extracts may also be used.
What do cannabis beverages taste like?
Early cannabis beverages on the regulated market could be quite oily, with a bitter taste or even notes of cannabis and chlorophyll. In recent years, significant research and development efforts by key regulated industry players have improved manufacturing processes.
As a result, the legal ready-to-drink market now offers a wide variety of products: iced tea, carbonated drinks, infused coffee, malt beverages, and more.
How should cannabis beverages be stored?
Safe storage guidelines for cannabis products are the same regardless of product type. THC beverages should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Since these products resemble regular drinks in cans or bottles, it is strongly recommended to store them separately from everyday food (e.g., not in the main refrigerator).
Once stored safely and out of reach, THC and CBD beverages can be kept in a cool place, preferably away from sunlight, for several weeks.
What is the THC or CBD concentration in a cannabis beverage?
Cannabis beverages may contain THC, CBD, or sometimes other minor cannabinoids. Concentration is expressed in milligrams. By law, cannabis beverages may contain a maximum of 5 mg of THC per unit. There is no set limit for CBD.
To know the THC or CBD content of a product, refer to the product information sheet in-store or visit our website, where details are listed on each product page.
Is it safer to ingest cannabis than to smoke it?
Cannabis beverages are a smoke-free option, avoiding the respiratory system. However, cannabis consumption is not risk-free, regardless of the method.
Like other ingestion methods (such as smoking a joint or using a pipe), cannabis beverages allow for better control over the amount of THC consumed. However, caution is still necessary: even if dosing is easier to manage, the risk of overconsumption is real.
As with all ingested cannabis products, absorption is slower than inhalation. Cannabinoids must first be absorbed through the stomach and intestines before entering the bloodstream.
This is why effects may be felt between 30 minutes and one hour, or longer, after consumption. Effects can last up to eight hours. These timelines are approximate and vary from person to person; caution is always recommended.
Can I consume alcohol with a cannabis beverage?
Experts are unanimous: it is strongly discouraged to mix alcohol with cannabis in any form (joint, beverage, vaping, etc.).
When alcohol and cannabis are consumed together, their depressant effects are amplified, and the impact on your abilities becomes unpredictable, even for experienced users.
In addition to alcohol, it is also not recommended to combine cannabis beverages with other consumption methods such as oil, dried flower, vaping, hash, or others.
Is there a purchase limit for cannabis beverages?
In accordance with the law2, the SQDC must limit dried flower quantities to 30 grams per order, and the same applies to beverages. The gram equivalent for each beverage is listed in the product description under “grams of cannabis.”
Health Canada defines dried cannabis equivalencies for the seven cannabis product categories, including beverages. The beverage equivalency calculation was revised in December 2022 to align with other categories, allowing possession of up to 48 cans of 355 ml.
Conclusion
One final reminder: no matter what type of consumer you are, always start with low doses (2.5 mg) and never drive after consuming cannabis.
Have more questions? Feel free to contact our in-store advisors or chat with us online.
Frequently asked questions
Products
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How many cannabis beverages can I buy?
The legal limit corresponds to 30 grams of dried cannabis equivalent per transaction. This may represent up to 48 cans of 355 ml depending on equivalency rules.
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What is the difference between a cannabis beverage and an alcoholic beverage?
Cannabis beverages contain cannabinoids such as THC or CBD instead of alcohol. Their effects, onset time, and duration differ from alcoholic drinks. Mixing alcohol and cannabis is not recommended.
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How should cannabis beverages be stored?
THC beverages should be stored:
- out of reach of children and pets
- in a cool, dark place
- separately from other beverages
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How long does it take to feel the effects of a cannabis beverage?
Effects may appear between 30 minutes and 1 hour or longer. This delay is due to digestion before cannabinoids enter the bloodstream. Effects can last up to 8 hours depending on the person and context.
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How much THC is in a cannabis beverage?
In Canada, a cannabis beverage may contain a maximum of 5 mg of THC per unit. CBD content may vary and is not subject to the same limit.
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Do cannabis beverages taste or smell like cannabis?
In most cases, no. Modern products offer a variety of flavours (iced tea, sparkling drinks, coffee, etc.). Manufacturing processes have evolved to reduce the plant-like or bitter taste.
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Can cannabis beverages be mixed with alcohol?
It is strongly discouraged. The combination can intensify effects and make them unpredictable.
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How long should I wait before driving after drinking a cannabis beverage?
It is illegal and dangerous to drive after consuming cannabis in any form. Impairment may last for several hours.
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Are cannabis beverages safe?
Like all cannabis products, beverages carry risks. They are smoke-free but require cautious consumption. It is recommended to start with a low dose of 2.5 mg and wait before consuming more.
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What are alternatives to smoked cannabis?
THC beverages may be considered a smoke-free option. However, their effects take longer to appear and last longer, requiring different consumption management. Cannabis is not risk-free regardless of method.
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