The Real Difference Between Hemp Drinks and CBD Drinks

Walk into any health store or dispensary, and chances are you’ll see shelves lined with drinks labeled “hemp” and others labeled “CBD.” To the average shopper, they might seem interchangeable, but the truth is these categories are quite different—and understanding the distinction can help consumers make better buying decisions.

What Are Hemp Beverages?

Hemp beverages are typically infused with hemp seed oil or hemp protein derived from the seeds of the cannabis plant. Importantly, hemp seeds do not contain cannabinoids like CBD or THC. Instead, these drinks are valued for their nutritional benefits. They’re rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, plant-based protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.

Think of hemp beverages as wellness drinks designed to support general nutrition, not necessarily to deliver cannabinoid effects. Popular examples include Hemp2O, a flavored vitamin-infused hemp drink, and Pacific Foods’ Hemp Milk, a dairy-free alternative that appeals to health-conscious consumers. These products are widely available in mainstream grocery stores and don’t fall under cannabis regulations because they don’t contain CBD or THC.

What Are CBD Beverages?

CBD beverages, on the other hand, are infused with cannabidiol (CBD) extracted from hemp flowers or stalks. CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid that interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, often sought after for its potential calming, anti-inflammatory, and stress-reducing properties.

Unlike hemp seed drinks, CBD beverages are positioned in the functional wellness space, promising specific effects beyond basic nutrition. For example, Recess markets sparkling CBD drinks designed for relaxation and focus, while Wyld CBD offers fruit-flavored sparkling waters made with broad-spectrum hemp extract. These products usually highlight the exact milligrams of CBD per serving, giving shoppers a clear sense of potency.

Key Differences Consumers Should Know

Source of Ingredients: Hemp beverages use hemp seeds; CBD beverages use hemp flower extract.
Cannabinoid Content: Hemp drinks contain little to no cannabinoids, while CBD drinks are formulated with measurable amounts of CBD.
Effects vs. Nutrition: Hemp drinks are nutritional, CBD drinks are functional and therapeutic.
Regulation: Hemp beverages are treated like standard food products, while CBD beverages are regulated differently depending on state laws and whether they contain THC traces.

Why This Matters for Shoppers

For consumers, the difference boils down to expectations. If someone is seeking plant-based nutrition, a hemp beverage may be the right choice. If they’re looking for relaxation, recovery, or wellness support, CBD beverages will be more appropriate.

Understanding labels is essential, especially since some products blur the lines. A drink branded as “hemp” may contain only hemp seed oil, leaving buyers disappointed if they were expecting CBD benefits. Reputable brands like Weller or Mad Tasty clearly list cannabinoid content, helping consumers know exactly what they’re getting.

The Bottom Line

Hemp beverages and CBD beverages may share similar packaging, but they serve very different purposes. Hemp drinks are all about nutrition, while CBD beverages are crafted for functional wellness. Knowing the difference ensures consumers can shop smarter, whether they’re filling their fridge for daily nutrition or seeking a calm boost at the end of the day.