CBG Drinks Are Booming in 2025: What Growers Should Know

CBG-infused beverages are bubbling up as the latest trend in the cannabis industry. Cannabis drinks have been steadily gaining traction – in 2024, U.S. sales of infused beverages (including hemp-based drinks) topped $382 million. Unlike traditional THC-infused drinks that cause a “high,” these new beverages feature non-intoxicating cannabinoids like CBG (cannabigerol) and CBD. Consumers are embracing cannabinoid mocktails, seltzers, and wellness drinks that deliver functional benefits without the buzz of alcohol or THC. In short, cannabinoid-infused drinks (minus the THC) are on the rise, and CBG is emerging as a star ingredient in this booming category.

[image: A frosty can of CBG-infused sparkling water being poured into a glass, illustrating the rise of non-THC cannabinoid drinks]

What’s Driving the Growth: Wellness Meets Legal Accessibility

Several forces are powering the explosive growth of cannabinoid beverages. Health and wellness trends play a big role – consumers are shifting away from sugary sodas and alcohol toward functional “better-for-you” drinks. A CBD market analysis noted that people are moving from soft drinks to wellness beverages, fueling the surge in cannabis drink sales. These drinks are often low-calorie and low-sugar, aligning with demand for healthier options. Many fans also see them as hangover-free alcohol alternatives that can be enjoyed socially while supporting relaxation or focus, not unlike herbal teas or adaptogenic elixirs.

Another driver is legal accessibility. Thanks to the 2018 U.S. Farm Bill, hemp-derived cannabinoids like CBD and CBG (with <0.3% THC) are federally legal, allowing infused drinks to be sold broadly. This means CBD/CBG beverages can be found in mainstream channels – from health stores to bars – instead of only in dispensaries. In fact, drinks made with hemp-derived cannabinoids are “exploding in unregulated channels” (outside of licensed marijuana stores). For example, a major edibles brand recently launched hemp-based drinks nationwide through a large retailer, highlighting the demand for zero-proof, cannabis-enhanced beverages. Because they contain no (or only trace) THC, these products face fewer regulatory hurdles and can tap into a nationwide market of wellness seekers.

Critically, shifting consumer attitudes favor these beverages. Many younger or “canna-curious” consumers prefer a mild, controllable experience in a familiar format (like a sparkling water or tea) over smoking or high-potency edibles. They’re drawn to the idea of “smoke-free, sociable ways to enjoy cannabis” that fit an active, health-conscious lifestyle. People limiting their alcohol intake (the “sober curious” movement) also find a friend in CBG and CBD drinks, which offer relaxation or focus without intoxication or next-day grogginess. All these factors create fertile ground for rapid growth in the cannabinoid beverage sector, with CBG now joining CBD at the forefront of this trend.

CBG vs. CBD in Beverages: Onset, Flavor, and Effects

CBG and CBD are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids, but they aren’t identical – especially in how they shine in beverages. Onset and absorption: Like any ingestible, a cannabinoid drink’s effects take a bit of time to kick in. Generally, a hemp-infused beverage may take effect within 30–60 minutes of drinking. Many manufacturers use nano-emulsion technology to speed this up; by breaking the cannabinoid into tiny particles, they can achieve absorption in as little as 15–30 minutes. That means a CBG or CBD seltzer could start mellowing you out by the time you’re finishing the can, notably faster than a solid edible. The duration of effects is usually a few hours, and since neither CBD nor CBG is intoxicating, the experience is typically subtle – think calming of nerves or sharpening of focus rather than a dramatic shift in consciousness.

Flavor profile is another consideration for drink formulators. Pure isolates of CBD and CBG are virtually flavorless, but there are subtle differences. Notably, CBG tends to have a milder, less bitter base note than CBD. This is a bonus for beverages – CBG’s neutral taste makes it easier to craft drinks without that “weedy” aftertaste that some CBD products have. In fact, product developers report that CBG isolate’s neutral flavor and stability simplify formulation for food and drinks, avoiding the heavy flavor-masking often needed with full-spectrum hemp extracts. CBG is also highly pure and stable, which means it can integrate smoothly into clear, shelf-stable beverages without degrading quickly. (Interestingly, CBG’s chemical stability can lead to 15–20% longer shelf life for infused products compared to equivalent CBD formulas – a little-known advantage for those mixing big batches of drinks!)

Perhaps the biggest differences come down to perceived effects. Both CBG and CBD interact with our endocannabinoid system and tend to promote balance, but their flavors of relief can differ. CBD is famous for imparting a sense of calm and relaxation, easing stress and anxiety without sedation. CBG, on the other hand, is often described as energizing or focusing – so much so that some enthusiasts nickname it the “CB-Go” cannabinoid for its subtle pick-me-up qualities. Beverage makers have caught onto this synergy: one popular hemp drink line blends CBG and CBD, touting “mood-lifting CBG and relaxing CBD” together to give a mild but cheerful buzz without alcohol. In essence, CBG is like the daytime complement to CBD. Users report that a CBG-infused tea or seltzer can provide gentle alertness or enhanced focus (akin to a calm energy boost), whereas a CBD-infused drink might be your go-to for unwinding stress while staying clear-headed. Both cannabinoids are non-intoxicating and even when combined they won’t make you feel “high” – but they can subtly influence the mood. For growers and product formulators, understanding this difference is key: CBG may be better suited for functional “uplift” beverages (think morning or work-friendly drinks), while CBD excels in evening chill-out tonics. Many beverage brands now include minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, or CBDV in their recipes to fine-tune effects, offering, for example, a “focus blend” vs. a “relax blend” by adjusting the cannabinoid ratios.

CBG vs. CBD in Beverages: Onset, Flavor, and Effects

CBG and CBD are both non-psychoactive cannabinoids, but they aren’t identical – especially in how they shine in beverages.

Onset and absorption: Like any ingestible, a cannabinoid drink’s effects take a bit of time to kick in. Generally, a hemp-infused beverage may take effect within 30–60 minutes of drinking. Many manufacturers use nano-emulsion technology to speed this up; by breaking the cannabinoid into tiny particles, they can achieve absorption in as little as 15–30 minutes. That means a CBG or CBD seltzer could start mellowing you out by the time you’re finishing the can, notably faster than a solid edible. The duration of effects is usually a few hours, and since neither CBD nor CBG is intoxicating, the experience is typically subtle – think calming of nerves or sharpening of focus rather than a dramatic shift in consciousness.

Flavor profile is another consideration for drink formulators. Pure isolates of CBD and CBG are virtually flavorless, but there are subtle differences. Notably, CBG tends to have a milder, less bitter base note than CBD. This is a bonus for beverages – CBG’s neutral taste makes it easier to craft drinks without that “weedy” aftertaste that some CBD products have. In fact, product developers report that CBG isolate’s neutral flavor and stability simplify formulation for food and drinks, avoiding the heavy flavor-masking often needed with full-spectrum hemp extracts. CBG is also highly pure and stable, which means it can integrate smoothly into clear, shelf-stable beverages without degrading quickly. (Interestingly, CBG’s chemical stability can lead to 15–20% longer shelf life for infused products compared to equivalent CBD formulas – a little-known advantage for those mixing big batches of drinks!)

Perhaps the biggest differences come down to perceived effects. Both CBG and CBD interact with our endocannabinoid system and tend to promote balance, but their flavors of relief can differ. CBD is famous for imparting a sense of calm and relaxation, easing stress and anxiety without sedation. CBG, on the other hand, is often described as energizing or focusing – so much so that some enthusiasts nickname it the “CB-Go” cannabinoid for its subtle pick-me-up qualities.

Beverage makers have caught onto this synergy: one popular hemp drink line blends CBG and CBD, touting “mood-lifting CBG and relaxing CBD” together to give a mild but cheerful buzz without alcohol. In essence, CBG is like the daytime complement to CBD. Users report that a CBG-infused tea or seltzer can provide gentle alertness or enhanced focus (akin to a calm energy boost), whereas a CBD-infused drink might be your go-to for unwinding stress while staying clear-headed.

Both cannabinoids are non-intoxicating and even when combined they won’t make you feel “high” – but they can subtly influence the mood. For growers and product formulators, understanding this difference is key: CBG may be better suited for functional “uplift” beverages (think morning or work-friendly drinks), while CBD excels in evening chill-out tonics. Many beverage brands now include minor cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, or CBDV in their recipes to fine-tune effects, offering, for example, a “focus blend” vs. a “relax blend” by adjusting the cannabinoid ratios.

How Growers Can Tap In: Strains, Terpenes, and Partnerships

The rise of CBG drinks is not just a consumer fad – it’s an opportunity for cultivators and hemp growers. If you are like us, you might be wondering what opportunities the future of CBG look like. We have done some general researching and here are a few solid ideas with a few key insights:

• Cultivate High-CBG Strains: Traditional cannabis strains typically contain very little cannabigerol by harvest time (because most CBG-A converts into THC or CBD as the plant matures). To supply the beverage market, growers need specially bred CBG-dominant strains that retain high CBG content through harvest. In recent years, breeders have developed hemp varieties that express CBG in large quantities (often 10–15%+ CBG in dried flower with negligible THC). Consider integrating strains like White CBG, Super Glue CBG, or Jack Frost CBG – these are examples known for high cannabigerol content and are sought after by extractors. By growing CBG-rich hemp, you position yourself to provide the raw material (biomass or extract) needed for this new class of beverages. Keep in mind that stable CBG genetics are still relatively rare, so source seeds from reputable providers (like CBGSEEDSOURCE) and be prepared for premium seed costs. The investment can pay off, as CBG isolate currently commands a higher price than CBD isolate due to its relative scarcity.

• Optimize Terpene Profiles for Flavor and Effect: When growing CBG strains, terpene content is a bonus value-add. Terpenes are the aromatic compounds in cannabis that also influence effects (for example, limonene from citrus has uplifting properties, while myrcene can be relaxing). Beverage companies are learning that infusing drinks with cannabis terpenes can enhance flavor, aroma, and even functional benefits. For instance, a lemon-citrus sparkling water could be enriched with a strain high in limonene for a natural zest and mood boost. As a grower, focusing on robust terpene profiles in your CBG crops can make your output more attractive. Some craft beverage makers might seek “full spectrum” hemp extracts (including terpenes) to create nuanced flavors, or they may buy terpenes separately to add into formulations. High-terpene CBG flower can be dual-purposed – used for extraction of CBG isolate and also as a source of terpenes. By lab-testing your flower for terpene content, you can market unique flavor profiles (e.g., “piney and crisp, great for hop-like seltzers” or “fruity and herbal for tea blends”). Ultimately, terpenes offer a customization angle: they give beverages a “new dimension to the drinking experience” and allow brands to craft signature flavor/effect combinations. Growers who recognize this can tailor their strains and even pursue partnerships to supply terpene-rich extracts for beverage recipes.

• Forge Partnerships in the Supply Chain: The intersection of hemp farming and beverage manufacturing creates room for strategic partnerships. Growers can collaborate with extraction labs or infusion companies to turn their biomass into a beverage-ready ingredient (like water-soluble CBG). If you’re a cultivator, consider building relationships with hemp processors that specialize in nano-emulsions or drink formulations. You might supply CBG-rich crude extract or isolate to a beverage brand, or co-develop a product with a local brewery or wellness drink startup. There’s precedent for farm-to-table cannabis drinks – for example, one family farm recently launched a line of hop-water style beverages featuring their own hemp’s rare cannabinoids (like CBG and CBDV). This kind of vertically integrated model can be a win-win: growers add value to their crop, and brands get a unique story (“locally grown CBG in our drinks!”) to tell consumers. Even if you don’t go that far, staying informed about what product manufacturers are looking for (purity levels, certifications, organic status, etc.) will help you tailor your cultivation practices to meet those needs. Quality and consistency are crucial – beverage companies will require that your CBG extract is safe, compliant, and consistent in potency. Ensuring your hemp is grown and cured properly (to avoid contaminants and to preserve cannabinoids) will make you a reliable partner in this space.

In short, growers can tap into the CBG drink boom by aligning their production with the demands of this niche: grow the right genetics, emphasize quality and unique profiles, and connect with the processing and product companies driving innovation.

Highlight: CBG Seed Source’s Top Strains and Germination Rates

One final tip for growers eager to dive into CBG – start with the best seeds. Because CBG-dominant plants are uncommon, you’ll want to source from experienced breeders with proven genetics. CBGSeedSource (thats us!) is a leader in this field, known for industry-best germination success. In fact, CBG Seed Source has the highest germination percentage in the market, with state-certified lab testing to verify their seed viability rates. That means more of your seeds sprout into healthy seedlings – a crucial factor when each CBG seed is precious and valuable. High germination rates can save growers thousands of dollars and lots of frustration by ensuring you get the maximum number of thriving plants per batch of seeds.

CBGSeedSource offers top CBG strains bred specifically for high cannabigerol content and vigor. With options ranging from fast-growing auto-flower CBG varieties to proven performers like White CBG and Stem Cell CBG, growers can choose the genetics that fit their operation. All seeds are feminized and compliant with legal THC limits, so you can grow with confidence. By choosing quality seeds with strong germination, you set yourself up for success from the very first step of the grow. As our experts like to say: “Germination is the foundation of your entire harvest” – and starting with reliable CBG seeds ensures that foundation is rock-solid.

In conclusion, the rise of CBG-infused drinks represents an exciting convergence of consumer trend and cultivation opportunity. Wellness-focused and legally accessible, these beverages are introducing the general public to the benefits of cannabinoids in a friendly, refreshing format. Growers who understand CBG’s unique attributes – and who adapt by growing the right strains and partnering wisely – can become key players supplying this burgeoning market. From the technical advantages of CBG (stability, neutral flavor) to the “rare cannabinoid” allure that captivates curious consumers, CBG drinks are carving out a significant niche. For those in the hemp growing community, now is the time to take note: CBG drinks are booming, and with the right insights and preparation, your farm could be quenching the market’s thirst for the next big cannabinoid. Cheers to the future of CBG and the growers who will make it possible!