The way Americans consume cannabis is evolving. A recent report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the shifting preferences for cannabis consumption methods as a growing number of U.S. states legalize it for medical and recreational use, and as new product types gain prominence in the marketplace. These changes reflect the growing variety of consumption options and the diverse ways consumers are incorporating cannabis into their lives.
Shifting Preferences in Cannabis Use
Historically, smoking has been the dominant method of cannabis consumption, and it continues to lead the pack. The CDC’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data from 2022 shows that among adults who reported cannabis use in the past 30 days, 79.4% smoked it. However, smoking’s dominance is gradually declining as alternative methods gain popularity.
For instance, 41.6% of survey respondents reported consuming cannabis through edibles, while 30.3% used vaping devices. Dabbing, a method involving the inhalation of concentrated cannabis vapor, was reported by 14.6% of respondents. These figures indicate not only an expansion of options but also a growing willingness to explore new ways of enjoying cannabis.
Young Adults Leading the Shift
Young adults aged 18 to 24 are driving some of the most significant changes in consumption preferences. This age group showed the highest rates of vaping (44.7%) and dabbing (28.4%), reflecting their adoption of high-potency methods and advanced cannabis technologies. These newer consumption methods align with broader societal trends toward convenience and innovation, powered by advancements in the vaping and concentrates industries we’ve seen over the years.
The report also highlights the growing diversity in cannabis consumption. Nearly half of those surveyed (46.7%) reported using two or more methods. The most common combinations include smoking and eating edibles (55.2%) or smoking and vaping (54.5%).
This shows consumers’ desire for variety and personalized experiences. Some may prefer the immediate effects of smoking or vaping, while others enjoy the longer-lasting and discreet effects of edibles. The flexibility to mix and match methods has enabled cannabis enthusiasts to tailor their use to specific occasions and preferences.
Why Are Consumers Exploring New Methods?
The increase in alternative methods comes as cannabis products have diversified alongside evolving consumer needs. Edibles, concentrates, vape pens, and other innovative formats have become more accessible as states expand legalization and as the industry invests in new technologies.
Diverse consumption methods also enable cannabis users to find options that align with individual health considerations. For example, vaping and edibles may appeal to users concerned about the potential respiratory impact of smoking. Similarly, the precise dosages offered by concentrates and edible products provide a level of predictability that some consumers appreciate.
The normalization of cannabis use through legalization has undoubtedly played a role in these shifting trends. At the time of the report, 39 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia had legalized cannabis for medical use, while 24 states and two territories also allowed recreational use.
This growing regulatory landscape has created space for innovation and an expanded marketplace, giving consumers access to an unprecedented array of cannabis products suited to their lifestyles.
The changing cannabis consumption scene isn’t without challenges, and education remains key. Public health experts underline the importance of understanding how these methods affect users differently. For instance, vaping and dabbing deliver higher concentrations of THC, leading to stronger and faster-acting effects that may appeal to experienced users but potentially overwhelm novices.
Similarly, edibles come with delayed effects, which can lead to unintentional overconsumption if users are unaware of the onset time. Their resemblance to regular snacks also makes edibles a higher safety risk for children when unsafely stored.
A Long-Term Trend Toward Normalization
With nearly 15.3% of U.S. adults reporting current cannabis use in 2022, this plant is becoming increasingly normalized in American society. Though use rates vary across demographic groups, cannabis continues to move from the fringes to the mainstream, with acceptance backed by its medical applications and cultural significance.
The CDC report shows an undeniable shift in how Americans are integrating cannabis into their lives. Alternative methods such as edibles, vaping, and dabbing are on the rise, driven by a growing appetite for innovative and personalized consumption experiences. This expanding variety points to an exciting future for the cannabis industry, as users continue to explore the benefits of new products.
As we watch these trends unfold, it’s clear that cannabis consumption is no longer just about smoking a joint. It’s about finding the best fit for the individual user, creating a diverse and inclusive marketplace that reflects the multifaceted nature of cannabis itself.
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