Cannabis Drinks Linked to Reduced Alcohol Intake

Small study finds pot drinks may help some people cut back on booze

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:07pm

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A new study from researchers at the University at Buffalo suggests that cannabis-infused drinks could help some people reduce their alcohol consumption. The survey of 438 adults who used cannabis in the past year found that those who drank cannabis beverages reported cutting their weekly alcohol intake by more than half, from about seven alcoholic drinks per week to just over three. The researchers say cannabis drinks may serve as an "alcohol harm reduction" tool, as alcohol is tied to numerous health risks while cannabis generally carries lower risks, though it's not risk-free.

Why it matters

As the cannabis drink market continues to grow, projected to top $4 billion by 2028, this study provides early evidence that these products could offer a potential way for some people to reduce their alcohol consumption and associated health risks. However, the researchers note that cannabis beverages are still a new product and it will take time before this type of substitution is considered mainstream.

The details

The study, published in the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, surveyed 438 adults who said they had used cannabis in the past year. About one-third of them reported drinking cannabis beverages. Those who used cannabis drinks were more likely to say they used them as a substitute for alcohol compared to people who used other cannabis products (about 59% versus 47%). On average, the cannabis beverage users reported cutting their weekly alcohol intake by more than half, from about seven alcoholic drinks per week to just over three, and said they binged on booze less often.

  • The study was published on January 28, 2026.

The players

Jessica Kruger

Lead author of the study and a public health researcher at the University at Buffalo.

Daniel Kruger

Co-author of the study and a researcher at the University at Buffalo.

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What they’re saying

“Swapping your IPA for a THC seltzer might do more than change your buzz. A small new study suggests cannabis-infused drinks could help some people cut back on alcohol.”

— Jenn Gidman (newser.com)

“Cannabis beverages are still new, and it'll take time before this kind of substitution is considered mainstream.”

— Jessica Kruger, Lead author (newser.com)

“The larger alcohol reductions reported by cannabis beverage users may stem from how closely the products mimic alcohol in setting and style: They usually come in cans, are consumed socially, and give people "a drink in their hand" at bars and parties.”

— Daniel Kruger, Co-author (newser.com)

What’s next

The research team plans to conduct longer-term studies comparing different forms of cannabis use as the cannabis drink market and legalization continue to grow.

The takeaway

This study suggests cannabis-infused drinks could serve as a potential "alcohol harm reduction" tool, allowing some people to cut back on their alcohol consumption and associated health risks. However, more research is needed as these products are still relatively new to the market.