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The future of the hemp-derived THC drink category remains in flux, but that is not stopping venture capitalists from continuing to bet on the set.

Women-positioned THC cocktail maker Jeng recently got the backing of beverage industry firm Quench Ventures as the brand eyes the growing opportunity in the category.

The undisclosed seed round marks the first institutional investment for the four-year-old company. 

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Fast-growing coconut water brand Zico Rising is making a tradition of announcing investments around the new year. The brand filed a SEC Form D on December 22, reporting a $2.2 million equity investment as part of an expected $7 million round.

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Functional mushroom coffee brand RYZE is finally hitting retail this month with a national retail launch in Target, featuring exclusive new latte mix launches.

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Upgrade to BevNET & Nosh Insider, our all-in-one membership for exclusive insights, data reports, and on-demand CPG video courses, to get the full Daily Briefing and unlock Insider-only content such as:

• How Quench Ventures is assessing long-term potential of the hemp-derived THC market
• All the details on Gorgie’s new protein product for women
• More movement within the THC spirits set and a look at how its shaping up 

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Insiders also gain access to the Newsletter Archive, including all previous Insider-only editions.

Here’s a look at leading headlines from around the beverage industry. Go beyond the headlines with Insider access.

1. Mel Robbins Launches Pure Genius Protein Shot
2. Spirit Industry Vets Launch Hemp-THC Platform Highpour
3. Non-Alc Beverage Sales Remain ‘Healthy’ In December
4. How ANA Brands Are Winning Investors and Retailers
5. Stateside Aims to Spark Spiked Sports Drink Trend

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She helped redefine premium soda. Now she’s rethinking the martini. 

In this episode, Sharelle Klaus shares how the lessons, missteps and successes of building DRY Soda informed the launch of Second Sip, a lower-proof gin designed for today’s intentional drinker. She reflects on how her second act is more focused, shaped by patience, distribution strategy, brand clarity and long-term scale.

Tune into the episode here. Also available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.