Selling THC Drinks in Minnesota Stores

In a move that's sending ripples through the retail and cannabis worlds, Target Corporation—the beloved big-box retailer headquartered in Minneapolis—has quietly launched a pilot program selling hemp-derived THC beverages in select Minnesota stores. Announced just days ago, this test run marks one of the first times a national chain like Target has dipped its toes into the intoxicating beverage market, signaling a bold step toward mainstream acceptance of low-dose cannabis products. As Minnesota continues to lead the nation in regulating these trendy alternatives to alcohol, consumers can now grab a buzz alongside their groceries.

The Pilot Launch: Where and What to Buy

The rollout is limited to about 10 Target locations in the Twin Cities region, allowing the company to gauge customer interest without a full statewide commitment. Shoppers in these stores will find a curated selection of a dozen THC-infused drink brands tucked into the beverage aisle, right next to sodas and energy drinks. The lineup features both national names and local favorites, including:

• Cann: Sparkling beverages with social vibes, founded in 2018 and now gracing Target shelves for the first time.
• Trail Magic: A Minnesota-based gem, co-founded by Jason Dayton, whose seltzers celebrate the state's outdoorsy spirit.
• Surly Brewing: The iconic local craft brewer pivoting to THC with hazy IPAs minus the alcohol.
• Other standouts like Wynk, Stigma, Wonder, Señorita, Wyld, Birdie, Gigli, Hi Seltzer, and Indeed—offering flavors from citrus spritzes to berry blasts.

These aren't high-octane edibles; Minnesota law caps them at 5 mg of THC per serving, ensuring a mellow experience suitable for daytime sipping. Purchasers must be 21 or older, with ID checks at the register to keep things compliant.

Minnesota's THC Boom: The Perfect Testing Ground

Why Minnesota? It's no coincidence. The state has been a pioneer in hemp-derived THC regulation since 2022, when lawmakers legalized low-potency edibles and beverages under strict guidelines. This created a thriving market for non-alcoholic alternatives, with THC drink sales exploding nationwide—surpassing $1 billion in 2024 alone. Local brewers like Surly and Trail Magic jumped in early, blending craft beer expertise with cannabis innovation to craft drinks that appeal to health-conscious millennials ditching booze.

Target, with nearly 75 stores across the state, is leveraging its home turf for this low-risk pilot. A company spokesperson confirmed it's all about "gauging public interest," with potential expansion to more Minnesota spots or even other hemp-friendly states if the numbers add up. As Jason Dayton of Trail Magic put it on LinkedIn, this launch "validates years of hard work" by the industry, from safety standards to consumer education.

Navigating Regulations: A Timely—but Tricky—Move

Timing is everything. While Minnesota's Office of Cannabis Management just opened applications for low-potency hemp edible licenses (due by October 31), federal clouds loom large. Congress is debating changes to the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized hemp and its derivatives (including THC under 0.3% by dry weight). Lawmakers like Sen. Rand Paul have voiced fears of an outright ban on THC products, potentially upending this burgeoning market.

State-level restrictions are also tightening, with some areas eyeing bans on dosing, labeling, or sales altogether. Yet, for now, Target's hemp-derived drinks sail under the federal legality umbrella, avoiding the stricter rules for marijuana. This cautious entry positions the retailer as a trailblazer among big-box peers, who have largely shied away from anything beyond CBD topicals.

What This Means for Shoppers and the Industry

For everyday Minnesotans, it's a game-changer: Imagine tossing a low-dose THC seltzer into your cart next to diapers and dish soap. It's normalization in action, making cannabis feel less like a taboo and more like a Tuesday treat. Industry watchers see it as a bellwether—if Target succeeds, expect Walmart or Costco to follow suit, further blurring lines between wellness, recreation, and retail.

But it's not without risks. Critics worry about accessibility to minors (despite age checks) and the potential for overconsumption in a market still maturing. Proponents, however, hail it as progress: safer, regulated options that could reduce alcohol-related harms.

Final Thoughts: Bullseye on Buzz

Target's THC test run isn't just about selling drinks—it's a bet on the future of leisure. As Minnesota's craft cannabis scene collides with corporate retail, one thing's clear: The era of discreet dispensary runs might be giving way to aisle-end indulgences. Head to your local Twin Cities Target (if it's one of the lucky 10) and see for yourself. Just remember: Start low, stay legal, and maybe pair it with some Target-brand snacks for the ultimate chill session.

Pro tip: Check Target's app for store-specific availability. And always consume responsibly—your buzz (and your budget) will thank you.