THC-infused drinks found on New York shelves near schools, often sold without ID and breaching state law

A variety of cannabis-infused beverages are now stocked in grocery stores, bodegas and delis across New York City. Brands such as Oasis, Cann, Milonga, Cycling Frog, Tempters, Gigli and Mighty Kind are packaged in colorful cans that resemble iced tea, probiotic sodas and other functional drinks.

A recent scouting trip of ten stores in South Brooklyn found the cans placed alongside regular sodas and even chocolate milk, often within a few blocks of schools. None of the locations displayed warning signs about the intoxicating nature of the products, and cashiers did not request identification when the drinks were purchased.

Under New York law, THC-containing beverages are prohibited from retail sale, especially to minors. Health officials have warned that the easy access and lack of clear labeling pose a risk to children and teenagers.

Doctors expressed concern that the unregulated presence of these drinks could lead to increased accidental ingestion. The findings suggest that state regulators may need to increase enforcement and require clearer labeling or removal of the products from shelves.