Just two months after launching its new seed-to-sale tracking system, the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority (CCA) is already seeing a fuller picture of the Commonwealth's medical cannabis program. Operated by Metrc, the system tracks every plant, product, and sale, giving the CCA real-time insights that were never possible before.
In July and August, the system recorded 17,786 plants harvested, $29,942,138 in sales, and 256,432 transactions. This comprehensive tracking not only provides data on the volume of activity within the market but also offers invaluable information about consumer preferences and trends.
The system also gives a detailed view of which products patients are choosing most. Currently, flower (buds) accounts for 47% of the market, followed by concentrates making up 32%. Infused edibles represent 15% of sales, while shake trim contributes to 5%. These insights allow the CCA to better understand the market dynamics, ensuring that the needs and preferences of medical cannabis patients in Virginia are being met efficiently.
"This system gives us a clear, real-time view of medical cannabis across Virginia," said Jamie Patten, Acting Head and Chief Administrative Officer of the CCA. "We can see which products are popular, track plant growth, and understand sales trends. That information helps us protect patients, prevent illegal products from entering the market, and make smart decisions for the program's future."
The seed-to-sale system also ensures that only tested, regulated cannabis reaches patients. Licensed medical cannabis processors in Virginia are required to use the system, which strengthens public safety and program transparency.
In the future, the CCA plans to create a public dashboard on its website so anyone can see this data, giving Virginians even more insight into the medical cannabis program. For more information on the seed-to-sale system and the CCA's work to keep medical cannabis safe and legal, visit cca.virginia.gov.
