THC-Infused Beverage Brands Seek 2,000 Volunteers for Free Cannabis Seltzer Study as Alcohol Alternative

The beverage industry is buzzing with innovation, and at the heart of this transformation is a pioneering effort to explore cannabis-infused drinks as a viable alternative to alcohol. A coalition of THC-infused beverage brands, led by research firm MoreBetter, has launched an ambitious Cannabis Seltzer Study, recruiting up to 2,000 volunteers to participate in a three-week observational research project. This study, announced on April 10, 2025, aims to uncover how these beverages influence mood, lifestyle, and alcohol consumption patterns, offering participants free cannabis-infused seltzers to sip and share their experiences. With alcohol sales declining and consumer curiosity about "better-for-you" options rising, this study could reshape the future of social drinking.

The Mechanics of the Cannabis Seltzer Study

This Cannabis Seltzer Study is designed to collect real-world data, moving beyond controlled lab environments to capture authentic consumer experiences. Volunteers, all adults over 21, will track their daily consumption of both alcohol and cannabis-infused beverages, alongside self-assessments of their mood and quality of life. The study spans three weeks: the first week establishes a baseline without cannabis drinks, while the following two weeks involve consuming a variety of infused products, including seltzers, 750ml mixer bottles, dry powder mixes, and 1.5-2 oz shots. Brands like BRĒZ, Cantrip, Nowadays, Iconic Tonics, and STIIIZY are sponsoring the study, supplying participants with free products to ensure diverse form factors and dosages are tested. This approach allows researchers to explore how different delivery methods and THC concentrations impact user perceptions, making the study a comprehensive dive into the practical use of cannabis beverages.

Why Now? The Cultural Shift

The timing of the Cannabis Seltzer Study is no coincidence. Alcohol consumption is waning, with younger adults leading the charge in movements like Dry January and the "Cali sober" trend, where cannabis is embraced as a mindful alternative to alcohol. A recent poll revealed that daily cannabis use in the U.S. has surpassed daily alcohol consumption, signaling a seismic shift in social habits. The 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp-derived THC products with less than 0.3% delta-9 THC, has fueled the rise of cannabis beverages, now available in all 50 states. Meanwhile, recreational cannabis is legal in 24 states, expanding access to these drinks. As beer and wine sales face pressure—analysts predict cannabis could threaten these markets due to lower price points—the industry is eager to understand how THC-infused seltzers can fill the gap, offering a buzz without the hangover.

The Science Behind the Sip

What sets cannabis-infused beverages apart from traditional edibles is nanoemulsion technology, a game-changer in the industry. This process breaks THC and CBD into nanoparticles, making them water-soluble and easier for the body to absorb. Unlike gummies or brownies, which can take an hour or more to kick in, these drinks deliver effects within 10 to 20 minutes, aligning more closely with the onset of alcohol. The Cannabis Seltzer Study will examine doses ranging from micro (2-5 mg THC, akin to a light beer) to higher potencies (up to 50 mg in some products), providing insights into how these variations influence the user experience. Researchers are particularly interested in whether these beverages can replicate the social lubrication of alcohol while avoiding side effects like nausea or anxiety, which some users report with higher THC doses.

Voices from the Industry

The brands behind the Cannabis Seltzer Study are not just suppliers; they’re visionaries aiming to redefine social rituals. Aaron Nosbisch, CEO of BRĒZ, emphasizes the mission to provide "a healthier, more mindful way to enjoy social moments." His company’s seltzers, infused with lion’s mane extract for added focus, reflect the industry’s push toward functional beverages. Cantrip’s CEO, Adam Terry, advocates for more research into cannabis, seeing the study as "just the first step" in validating its benefits. Evan Eneman of Iconic Tonics views the project as a cultural pivot, delivering "functional, flavorful alternatives that meet the moment." These leaders are united by a belief that real-world data, gathered through the Cannabis Seltzer Study Online platform, will legitimize their products and destigmatize cannabis use, positioning it as a mainstream choice for relaxation and socializing.

How to Join the Cannabis Seltzer Study Online

For those intrigued by the prospect of free cannabis seltzers and contributing to groundbreaking research, joining the Cannabis Seltzer Study Online is straightforward. MoreBetter has set up a website where adults can check their eligibility and sign up. Participants must be 21 or older and reside in a state where hemp-derived or recreational cannabis products are legal. Once enrolled, volunteers receive their supply of beverages and access to a digital platform for logging daily feedback. This user-friendly system ensures the study captures nuanced data, from consumption habits to emotional well-being. With up to 2,000 spots available, the study offers a unique opportunity for consumers to shape the future of the beverage industry while enjoying innovative products at no cost.

Anticipating the Cannabis Seltzer Study Results

While the Cannabis Seltzer Study Results are not yet available, expectations are high. Researchers aim to uncover whether THC-infused beverages can reduce alcohol consumption, enhance mood, and improve overall wellness. The study’s focus on diverse product types—seltzers, shots, and mixers—will reveal which formats resonate most with consumers. Preliminary industry insights suggest cannabis drinks appeal to those seeking a "gentle, social buzz" without the calories or regrets of alcohol. However, experts like Dr. Staci Gruber of Harvard Medical School caution that individual responses to THC vary widely, and overconsumption can lead to discomfort. The Cannabis Seltzer Study Results, expected to be published later in 2025, will provide critical data to guide product development, inform public health policies, and influence consumer perceptions.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite the excitement, the rise of cannabis beverages isn’t without hurdles. The alcohol industry, particularly beer and wine sectors, views cannabis as a threat, with trade groups like the Beer Institute calling for federal taxes on THC products to level the playing field. Regulatory gaps also persist, as states grapple with how to oversee these drinks. Some, like Connecticut, restrict sales to licensed dispensaries, while others allow them in liquor stores. Health experts remain cautious, noting that long-term effects of regular THC consumption are understudied. The Cannabis Seltzer Study aims to address these gaps by providing robust data, but it must navigate a landscape where cannabis remains a Schedule I drug federally, complicating research efforts.

The Road Ahead

As the Cannabis Seltzer Study unfolds, it represents more than a research project—it’s a cultural milestone. With brands like Hippie Water and Death Row Records’ Do It Fluid joining the fray, the diversity of products reflects a maturing market. The study’s findings could accelerate the mainstreaming of cannabis beverages, challenging alcohol’s dominance in social settings. For now, 2,000 volunteers are poised to sip their way into history, offering insights that could redefine how we unwind. As Aaron Nosbisch of BRĒZ puts it, this is about "validating the positive impact" of cannabis drinks, paving the way for a future where a chilled seltzer sparks connection, not compromise.

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