A national survey found 74% of vape shops across 48 states sell intoxicating cannabis products, with 188 unique brands identified — the first systematic documentation of this rapidly growing market.
public health officials, cannabis regulators, consumer safety advocates, parents
What the researchers found
74% of 520 surveyed vape shops sold intoxicating cannabis products (ICPs). Products were available in 48 of 50 states plus territories. 273 shops provided brand information, identifying 188 unique brands (average 2.4 per shop). Top brands: Torch (12.7%), Mellow Fellow (9.7%), Cake (8.4%), Modus (8.0%), Delta Extrax (7.6%).
Why it matters
Since the 2018 Farm Bill, intoxicating hemp-derived products (like delta-8 THC) have proliferated with minimal regulation. This study documents the scale of the problem: nearly three-quarters of vape shops now sell these products in virtually every state.
The numbers in context
520 vape shops surveyed. 74% sold ICPs. 48 states/territories had shops selling ICPs. 188 unique brands identified. Average 2.4 brands per shop. Top brand: Torch (12.7%).
How the study worked
Telephone surveys of 520 vape shops across all 50 states, Washington D.C., and Puerto Rico (November-December 2023). 10 shops per state/territory identified via Google Maps. Asked about THC product availability and popular brands.
What this study cannot tell us
Telephone survey may not capture all products or newer brands. 10 shops per state may not represent full market. Self-reported product availability. Rapidly evolving market may have changed since 2023.
How to read the evidence
First systematic national survey of ICP availability with good geographic coverage, but telephone methodology and rapidly evolving market limit completeness.
When this study was published
2025 publication with November-December 2023 data.
The bigger picture
The near-universal availability of intoxicating cannabis products in vape shops — regardless of state cannabis laws — represents a major regulatory gap. These products are accessible to consumers (including youth) without the quality controls, testing requirements, or purchase age limits that apply to legal recreational cannabis.
Questions still open
- Are these products being purchased by minors?
- What quality and safety standards apply to these products?
Common questions
Are THC products sold in vape shops?
Are hemp-derived THC products regulated?
Read the original research
Brands of Intoxicating Cannabis Products in Vape Shops: United States, 2023.
Substance use & misuse, 1-4
Citation
Tillett, Kayla K; LoParco, Cassidy R; Rossheim, Matthew E; Chen-Sankey, Julia; Trangenstein, Pamela J; Berg, Carla J. (2025). Brands of Intoxicating Cannabis Products in Vape Shops: United States, 2023.. Substance use & misuse, 1-4. https://doi.org/10.1080/10826084.2025.2592227