USA – Heineken’s fully owned subsidiary, Lagunitas Brewing Company has launched cannabis-infused sparkling water line in California, making Heineken the first international brewer to introduce a THC-infused cannabis beverage.
The beverage was developed through a collaboration between Lagunitas and California cannabis manufacturer CannaCraft by creating the Hi-Fi Hops line, which is infused with THC and/or CBD (cannabidiol).
The two products called Hi-Fi Hops, are non-alcoholic beverages contain zero alcohol, zero calories, and zero carbohydrates.
The hoppy sparkling water beverages come in two doses: one containing 5 mg of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and 5 mg of CBD (Cannabidiol), and another containing 10 mg of THC and are set to debut at California-licensed dispensaries on July 30.
An article by Brew Bound revealed that as part of the agreement, Lagunitas will produce the hop-infused, carbonated water and ship the liquid to CannaCraft’s facility in nearby Santa Rosa, California.
Then the latter will be mandated to infuse its emulsified THC and CBD oils into the hoppy water, and package upwards of 25,000 12 oz. cans for distribution.
“Hi-Fi Hops is not the first chapter in the love affair between cannabis and Lagunitas, but it is one of the most exciting.
“The idea of being a part of a no-calorie beverage infused with cannabis seemed like a perfect next step in our product innovation and a natural way to marry our past with our future,” said Lagunitas Brewing Company CEO Maria Stipp.
Commenting on the matter Lagunitas brew master Jeremy Marshall said, “We often dream of hops and their cannabis cousin partying together at their family reunion and wanted to bring this party to life in a drink.
“We believe it’s high time that good beer inspired a provocative yet refreshing-tasting non-alcoholic alternative – bubbly, aromatic, bitter, fruity and herbaceous with no gluten, no carbohydrates and a smidge of California sun-grown cannabis in every sip.”
Heineken acquired the remaining stake in Lagunitas last year, two years after acquiring 50% of the firm.
Meanwhile, US beverage company Tarukino launched a line of six cannabis-infused drinks for consumers looking for alternative ways to consume cannabis.
The announcement comes few days after Canada voted to legalise recreational use of cannabis.
Elsewhere, the UK government announced plans to review the use of medicinal cannabis but it maintained the drug remained banned for recreational purposes.
