Edibles, Vapes, and Dabs: The New Face of Cannabis Consumption in the U.S.
Marijuana isn’t just being smoked anymore. More Americans are turning to edibles, vape pens, and dabs — a shift that’s reshaping the way cannabis is used, according to a new federal report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
In a comprehensive study spanning nearly a decade, the CDC analyzed data from more than 1.6 million adults between 2016 and 2022. The results show a clear trend: while traditional smoking remains common, alternative consumption methods are rapidly gaining ground.
The biggest jump? Edibles — like THC-infused gummies, chocolates, and beverages — which saw a 22% increase in popularity over the study period. Vaping and dabbing also climbed, especially among younger adults aged 18 to 24, where more than half of cannabis users reported choosing at least one of these non-smoking options.
Why the Shift?
Experts point to several reasons for the change. Edibles and vape products are often seen as more discreet and socially acceptable, especially in public settings. They’re also marketed with flavors and branding that appeal to younger consumers. And for many, the perception is that these alternatives are a “healthier” choice than smoking — though the long-term effects of inhaling cannabis vapor or consuming high-dose THC edibles are still being studied.
The CDC cautions that this shift brings new public health questions. While smoking cannabis carries known respiratory risks, edibles can lead to overconsumption because of delayed onset effects. Dabbing, which involves inhaling highly concentrated cannabis extracts, can deliver intense highs that may increase the risk of dependence or adverse reactions.
What It Means for Public Health
With more states legalizing cannabis, researchers stress the importance of tracking how it’s being used — not just how often. Different forms of consumption come with different health implications, and understanding those nuances is key to shaping future regulations and public education campaigns.
As cannabis becomes more mainstream, so too does the need for smarter, more nuanced policy.
As cannabis consumption habits evolve, so too does the industry around it. In California, the cannabis sector is beginning to rival the state’s world-famous wine industry — a shift explored in our deep dive on how weed is changing the Golden State’s economy. Meanwhile, in New York, legal marijuana faces mounting challenges, from licensing delays to regulatory crackdowns, as detailed in our 2025 investigation into the state’s cannabis rollout. And as use becomes more widespread, questions of safety are front and center — including the real impact of THC on drivers, which we unpack in our recent report on cannabis and driving habits.
