Will Ohio ban THC-infused drinks soon? Retailers scramble to clear inventory

OG Article By Laura A. Bischoff Watch Today's LIVE Episode on X and Rumble

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October 08 2025

Overview

Beer and wine shops in Ohio rushed to clear THC-infused beverage inventory on October 7, 2025. Rumors swirl of an executive order from Gov. Mike DeWine, potentially banning sales as early as October 8. His office stayed silent late Tuesday.

Retailer Response

• Aardvark Wine & Beer (near Worthington) posted on Facebook: "We've received word that there might be an executive order... to ban the THC beverages... That means we'll be stuck with a lot of inventory that we can't sell." They called it a "big hit" for small businesses and distributors.

• The Rambling House urged buys on Instagram: "Buy now... A sudden ban will hurt small businesses." As the first manufacturer in 2020, they pitched the drinks as a "fun, relaxing option" for non-beer moments with friends and music.

These beverages appeal to young adults drinking less alcohol than past generations.

Governor's Stance

DeWine opposes THC-infused drinks and edibles sold at gas stations, beer stores, and beyond. In January 2024, he demanded restrictions on intoxicating hemp.

"The current loophole that allows these dangerous products to be sold to children needs to be closed as soon as possible," he said.

On October 8, DeWine planned a 2:30 p.m. press conference in Columbus. A draft order suggests a 60-day state of emergency banning "consumer products containing intoxicating hemp," extendable by the General Assembly.

Legislative Stalemate

Lawmakers stalled bills to limit intoxicating hemp—like delta-8 THC—to licensed cannabis dispensaries with THC caps. No consensus emerged amid broader cannabis debates post-Ohio's 2023 legalization vote.

Legal Loophole

The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp nationwide: cannabis under 0.3% delta-9 THC. This spurred industrial hemp and CBD but cracked open doors for gray-market products at CBD shops, breweries, and gas stations.