Hemp, THC, CBD, and Cannabis: What’s the Difference?
Hemp
Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant. Under federal definitions, hemp typically refers to cannabis containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight.
THC
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary intoxicating compound responsible for producing impairment and a “high.” THC may be derived from hemp or marijuana. The source does not change its impairing effects.
CBD
CBD (cannabidiol) is generally considered non-intoxicating and does not produce the same impairing effects associated with THC.
Simple Takeaway: Consumers are often confused by the terminology. Hemp is not a synonym for non-intoxicating. Hemp-derived products contain levels of THC and can impair consumers.
Many consumers believe:
- If a product is sold legally, it must be safe.
- Hemp beverages are the same as CBD beverages.
- Driving after consuming THC is less risky than driving after drinking alcohol.
- A driver can easily tell when they are impaired.
These assumptions are often incorrect. Research and public safety experts continue to emphasize that THC can impair driving ability and that individuals frequently misjudge their own level of impairment.
Understanding the Risks. Protecting Our Roads. Keeping Kids Safe.
Hemp-derived THC beverages are becoming available in stores, restaurants, and online marketplaces. While these products may look similar to flavored seltzers or energy drinks, some contain intoxicating levels of THC—the compound that can impair judgment, reaction time, coordination, and driving ability. Many consumers do not fully understand how these products work, how intoxication develops, or how long impairment can last.
Our goal is not to take a position on whether these products should be legal. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions, keep roads safe, and ensure young people (your kids!) are protected from preventable harm.
Driving Under the Influence Is Dangerous
Whether impairment comes from alcohol, cannabis, or THC-infused hemp beverages, the message is the same:
These beverages and products are impairing. And when you are impaired, you should not drive. Hemp and THC beverages can affect:
- Reaction time
- Attention and concentration
- Judgment and decision-making
- Perception of time and distance
- Coordination and motor skills
Hemp and THC affect individuals differently based on body chemistry, tolerance, dosage, consumption method, and other or additional substances used. That variability makes it difficult for individuals to accurately judge whether they are safe to drive. Many people underestimate how impaired they are.
The Intoxication Gap: Why Many Consumers Get It Wrong
One of the biggest public safety concerns surrounding THC beverages is that people often do not recognize how intoxicated they are—or how intoxicated they may become.
THC beverages can have a delayed onset compared with alcohol. A person may consume a beverage, feel little effect initially, and then consume additional products before the first dose has fully taken effect. This can lead to unintended overconsumption and greater impairment.
Keeping Kids Safe Starts With Conversations
As these products become more visible and accessible, parents and caregivers play a critical role in prevention.
Young people may assume that products sold in convenience stores, delivered through online retailers, or marketed as “hemp” are harmless. Adults can help correct those misconceptions through honest, ongoing conversations.
Conversation Starters for Families
Talk About Impairment: Help teens understand that impairment is impairment—regardless of whether it comes from alcohol, cannabis, or hemp-derived THC products.
Discuss Driving Safety. Make it clear:
- Never drive after consuming THC products.
- Never ride with an impaired driver.
- Always have a plan for a safe ride home.
Practice Refusal Strategies: Encourage teens to think ahead about how they would respond if offered intoxicating products.
Store Products Securely: If adults choose to purchase hemp-derived THC products, keep them securely stored and out of reach of children and teens.
Legal Status: A Rapidly Changing Landscape
The legal status of hemp-derived THC beverages continues to evolve across the United States.
While hemp-derived THC beverages have been permitted under interpretations of the 2018 Farm Bill in many states, regulations differ widely. Some states prohibit intoxicating hemp products, others restrict them to licensed cannabis channels, and many have adopted age limits, labeling requirements, or THC-content restrictions.
Federal law is also changing, with additional regulatory developments expected. Because laws vary significantly from state to state and continue to evolve, consumers should always check current local regulations before purchasing or consuming these products.