New Survey Finds Cannabis Consumers Prioritize Clean Weed Over High THC

A recent Harris Poll commissioned by Royal Queen Seeds reveals a significant shift in cannabis consumer preferences, with a growing emphasis on product safety rather than simply chasing high THC content. According to the survey, 72% of cannabis consumers expressed strong concern about pesticides in their cannabis, while 67% said they would prefer weaker cannabis grown without pesticides over more potent, pesticide-laden options. This marks a notable departure from years of industry marketing focused on maximizing THC levels as the primary selling point

The poll, conducted online in March 2026 among 2,017 U.S. adults aged 21 and older—including 851 cannabis consumers—highlights a developing skepticism toward potency as the sole indicator of quality. "Once people start seeing cannabis as something more intentional than just a good time, the tolerance for dirty inputs, bad labeling and empty THC hype starts to shrink," the report noted. These findings suggest that consumer demand is evolving toward transparency and safer cultivation practices

Transparency remains a concern for many, as 63% of cannabis consumers believe the industry is fully transparent about pesticide testing, yet nearly three in four remain worried about pesticide presence. This disconnect may be fueling increased interest in home cultivation. The survey found 61% of Americans aged 21 and older support legal home growing, with 79% of cannabis consumers in favor. Furthermore, 65% of cannabis consumers said recent media coverage has made them more likely to consider growing their own cannabis as a form of quality control

The survey also points to broader changes in consumption patterns. Cannabis use among Americans 21 and older rose to 43%, up from 39% in 2024, and daily usage increased by three percentage points to 13%. Notably, only 23% of cannabis users consume exclusively for enjoyment; most cite health or wellness benefits as part of their motivation. Younger adults are more likely to support home grow and check testing labels, while women report less trust in the industry's pesticide transparency

From the OG Lab newsroom perspective, this poll signals a maturing consumer base that is demanding more transparency and higher safety standards from the cannabis industry. As customers become more discerning about what goes into their products, the longstanding focus on THC potency may become less effective as a marketing tool. Cannabis companies should take note: the era of "stronger is better" could be giving way to a new standard of "cleaner is better," with significant implications for product development, branding, and regulatory compliance