Lion Bridge Brewing launches first Iowa line of THC drinks in a new size, strength since state law caps

CEDAR RAPIDS — A Czech Village brewery has launched Iowa’s first line of THC beverages in a new size and strength since the passage of a new state law regulating them.

  Buy Photo

Lion Bridge Brewing launched MoonDream, its own line of THC-infused sparkling water, in three flavors on Nov. 7.

But more noteworthy is the size and potency of THC — the psychoactive element that gives users a “high” — in each can. With two 2.5-milligram servings, MoonDream’s 16-ounce cans each deliver a total of 5 milligrams of THC, becoming the first in Iowa to go over 4 milligrams per can since HF2605 became law earlier this year.

“We’ve come out with an innovative product. It’s a new (THC strength) on the market, so there’s a window where people will be excited — something to set us apart from other brands,” said Quinton McClain, founder and head of operations for Lion Bridge Brewing. “It seemed like a good opportunity.”

McClain expects similar products from other brands to enter the Iowa market soon.

The MoonDream line, launched with approval from Iowa’s Department of Health and Human Services, comes after the new law’s effects and definitions of serving sizes were clarified over the summer. While a 12-ounce container still is limited to 4 milligrams THC, larger container sizes can offer proportionally more THC. For example, a 24-ounce container may have up to 8 milligrams of THC.

The new law cut the strength of many THC beverages made and sold in Iowa by more than half after the hemp-derived drinks — legalized federally in 2018 by the passage of the Farm Bill — became the only legal outlet for Iowans to access the same buzz found in cannabis.

Before its passage, THC drink lines by producers like Climbing Kites and Field Day Brewing Co. offered 10 milligrams of THC in a 12-ounce can. After the law took effect in July, producers reduced most of their 12-ounce cans to 4 milligrams THC — the maximum allowed by law for that size.

With no sugar, calories, carbohydrates or alcohol, Lion Bridge Brewing’s new beverages are marketed as an opportunity to “transport you to a place of peace and mysticism” with each sip.

“Our goal is to create a beverage that not only tastes wondrous, but also promotes well-being, community and connection,” McClain said.

Citrus Berry and Strawberry Apricot flavors are available for on-site sales now at 59 16th Ave. SW, with Peach Tangerine coming online by the end of the week. The drinks will be available at retailers across the state by mid-November.

Comments: Features reporter Elijah Decious can be reached at (319) 398-8340 or elijah.decious@thegazette.com.