Quality, Safety, and Public Awareness of Regulated and Unregulated Cannabis Products: A Comparative Survey Study of Dispensary Customers and the General Public Integrated with Laboratory Evaluation

Cannabis use is expanding rapidly across the United States, yet product quality and consumer safety knowledge remain significant public health concerns. This cross-sectional study surveyed 325 adults in Florida dispensary customers (n = 185) and general public participants (n = 140) to compare cannabis use patterns, purchasing behaviors, and safety awareness. Cannabinoid gummy products were characterized using texture analysis; oil and topical formulations were evaluated for label accuracy by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) against USP specifications (90–110% of label claim). Inter-laboratory variability accelerated stability testing, and a machine learning microsimulation projecting knowledge trend (2026–2031) were also conducted. Texture analysis revealed substantial variability in mechanical properties across gummy brands. Oil and topical formulations demonstrated generally acceptable labeling accuracy, though significant inter-laboratory variability in CBD quantification was observed. Dispensary respondents reported more frequent cannabis use, stronger brand loyalty, greater perceived quality-of-life benefits, and higher product knowledge than the general public; however, critical safety knowledge gaps regarding THC–cardiovascular drug interactions and pregnancy risks persisted across both groups. These findings highlight the need for stronger product quality standards, standardized analytical testing, and targeted public health education to promote safe and informed cannabis use.