Columbia Embraces Delta-9 Seltzers: A Refreshing Twist on Social Drinking

Columbia’s Newest Beverage Sensation: Delta-9 Seltzers

COLUMBIA — The vibrant city is buzzing with excitement as Peak Drift Brewing Co. unveils its delightful line of **Delta-9 THC seltzers**, now available at local restaurants and the brewery on North Main. These beverages are stirring up conversations about wellness, relaxation, and, most importantly, their unique attributes that set them apart from traditional alcoholic drinks.

What’s the Craze About?

As we dive deeper into the world of Delta-9, it’s essential to understand what these seltzers are all about. According to Peak Drift, these seltzers promise stress relief, pain alleviation, and even mood regulation. Sounds pretty appealing, right? President Jordan Styles and Non-Alcoholic Division Manager Quinn Sellers have been keen to emphasize that their products aim for a state of “light euphoria.” In a recent chat, Sellers painted a vivid picture, stating these drinks may evoke feelings akin to uncontrollable laughter brought on by a hilarious joke. “It’s the calming sensation that washes over you afterward,” he shared, grinning.

How Do They Work?

These seltzers come in flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Think along the lines of a juicy, sweet **Peach Daze** (5mg of THC), a tangy **Pineapple**, and an inviting floral **Blood Orange and Hibiscus** blend (both with 10mg of THC). The key selling point? They also contain 10mg of CBD, the **non-psychoactive** part of the cannabis plant known for promoting feelings of calm and potentially easing inflammation.

Unlike traditional marijuana, these beverages won’t send you on a rollercoaster ride through cloud nine. Instead, Styles reassured us, “They just relax you.” Since Delta-9 THC extracted from hemp is legal in South Carolina, the doors are wide open for consumers to try this innovative beverage without fears of intoxication.

Legal Loopholes and Marketing Challenges

Lisa Buffo, founder of the Cannabis Marketing Association, provided an interesting perspective on the legal landscape. She described these products as a “**loophole**,” allowing the production of legal, intoxicating THC beverages that ride the fine line of the Farm Bill’s regulations. “These are derived from hemp, not marijuana,” Buffo noted, highlighting the bare complexities involved.

In South Carolina, the regulatory framework is still catching up with the trends. For instance, brands are required to label all active ingredients, including THC, which allows consumers transparency about what they’re drinking. But navigating these regulations can be a bit of a maze, especially for brewers like Peak Drift who traditionally dealt in the alcohol market.

What to Expect When Sipping

Curious about the effects? Peak Drift has provided some helpful consumption guidelines. The brewery suggests starting with just one sip and waiting about **30 minutes** to gauge how your body reacts. They’ve also warned not to exceed four drinks in one sitting—after all, relaxation is the goal, and you don’t want to take it too far.

The sensation promised is a mellower vibe—a gentle slowing down of the mind, without the hiccups that come with getting high. It’s essential to note that, despite their friendly intentions, these beverages shouldn’t be consumed when planning to drive or while ensuring sobriety.

A Surprise Audience

The marketing journey for these seltzers has unearthed an unexpected demographic—older generations. Styles remarked on how those who dabbled in cannabis during the 70s and 80s are now re-exploring these products as a healthier option. “It’s a different avenue for them,” he explained.

However, the perception surrounding these seltzers still presents challenges. Some skeptics believe that simply having “THC” in the name implies a free pass to getting high, while Peak Drift is committed to setting the record straight about the light-hearted intentions behind their creations. “That’s *not* exactly what the product is,” Styles asserted.

Final Thoughts: A New Adventure Awaits

For those living in Columbia, this new venture into the world of Delta-9 seltzers is sure to stir curiosity and perhaps change the way we think about social drinking. Whether you’re looking for a chill evening with friends or a thoughtful addition to your night-out agenda, these hemp-derived seltzers offer a fresh perspective on relaxation and enjoyment.

As the lovely October days ahead unfold, perhaps now is the perfect time to take a step into this new libation journey. After all, who wouldn’t be intrigued by the idea of sipping a cool, refreshing drink that brings a little bit of calm into an often chaotic world?