CBD has been gaining major traction in the past five years. It’s in skincare products, topical creams, oils, lip balms, body washes, shampoos and conditioners and even activewear. But did you know there is CBD beer? Trust me, we were just as shocked and left pondering what is it, exactly. Could it be beer with actual cannabinoid oil? Does the alcohol mix with the CBD extraction? Or is it added in once the beer is brewed? To answer all our burning questions, we did some research.

What is CBD beer?

CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid of cannabis, in beer creates a mind and body relaxation — without producing a high. The nice part about CBD beer is many companies make two versions: one with alcohol and one without — appealing to the non-drinking fans. Mainly it just makes you really chilled. In fact, a 2019 study showed very positive effects for people with anxiety and insomnia. Volunteers consumed 25mg and 75mg of CBD a day for a month and significantly improved their sleep and reduced anxiety. So basically, drinking a CBD beer will not make you drunk or high.

How is CBD-infused beer made?

Short answer: it depends who is making it.

Brewers can take multiple approaches to making CBD-infused beer. The most obvious and less involved way — taken out of Lagunitas Hi-Fi Hops book — is adding it in after the beer is already made. Other companies will put the THC and CBD in the wort after the boil so the CBD can infuse and brew with the beer the entire time.

What does it taste like?

The final flavor profiles depends on the company making it, but generally speaking, it has a pleasant hoppy aroma with flavors of citrus, flowers and a hint of bitterness.

Is it legal or bad for you?

There’s a lot of debate on its legality but generally speaking, since hemp is legal, hemp-derived CBD is too.

However, it is illegal to add cannabinoids derived from actual cannabis plants to an alcohol product. And it varies from state to state as well. Few governments are thrilled at the idea of cross-faded consumers.

In California, for example, there was a 2018 law prohibiting bars and stores from selling CBD cocktails and beverages. In Utah, they are still banded.

Where can you buy CBD beer?

San Diego-based, Outbound Brewing is one of the few places producing CBD-infused beer. You can also get it from Lagunitas, Two Flowers, and a host of other brands.

Interested in more CBD products? Try some CBD gummies.

Photo via The New York Times