Charleston beverage manufacturer halts SC distribution over new regulations 

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A Charleston-based seltzer-maker is temporarily pausing distribution operations in South Carolina as a result of newly issued labeling guidelines.

This decision from High Rise Beverage Co., a hemp beverage manufacturer, stems from the recent confusion surrounding labeling requirements imposed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control and High Rise’s commitment to consumer safety and product transparency, a High Rise news release stated.

At issue is a January letter from the DHEC’s Bureau of Community Health Services Division of Food and Lead Risk Assessments prohibiting the introduction into interstate commerce any food to which tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD) has been added.

High Rise has prioritized well-being and transparency with its consumers, the release stated, and is working to address the intricacies of DHEC’s new requirements. The company’s commitment to regulatory compliance and consumer safety is unwavering, the release stated.

Amid the controversy, High Rise has unveiled the “Blackout Edition,” a new line of beverages that do not contain hemp or THC, according to the release.  This collection will present four flavors, each infused with adaptogens, continuing High Rise’s mission of promoting health and wellness.

Furthermore, High Rise is donating 10 cents from every can sold from the “Blackout Edition” toward advocacy for hemp laws and educational initiatives in the field, the release stated.

This THC-Free lineup is set to launch in early March.

“South Carolina is more than just our marketplace; it is our home, our community,” High Rise co-founder Matt Skinner said in the release. “Halting distribution was a challenging decision, but it reinforces our commitment to act responsibly for our community. The ‘Blackout Edition’ stands as a symbol of our dedication to innovation, community support, and the evolution of the hemp industry.”