DAYTON, Ky. — The first cannabis processing facility in Kentucky is now operational in Northern Kentucky, filling what industry leaders call the “missing piece” in the state’s medical cannabis supply chain and anticipating putting THC gummies on dispensary shelves within two weeks.

Toro Infused, located in Dayton, about 15 minutes from Cincinnati, is the only processor currently operating in the state. The facility transforms raw cannabis from Kentucky farmers into medical products for patients. The company, which held a ribbon-cutting Thursday, is licensed under Bison Infused Kentucky, LLC.

“We intend to be able to fill the shelves and keep the shelves full,” said CEO Mario Gadea. “Our goal is to be that critical missing piece that completes that supply chain circle.”

The lab uses machines to extract THC — the medicinal component of the plant — from raw material before refining it into edible gummies, vapes and concentrates.

Director of Extraction Donny Petarra said THC gummies could reach stores in two weeks, with vapes and concentrates following later. 

“We definitely a big undertaking, and we feel the pressure, we feel all the eyes on us and we’re hoping to deliver,” Gadea said.

Only two dispensaries in Kentucky are currently selling products to patients. The Post in Beaver Dam temporarily closed after running out of inventory, while Speakeasy in Lexington sells only flower — the dried, cured buds of the plant.

“A processor opens up a whole lot of various products that can go to customers,” Petarra said.

Gadea, who has worked in the cannabis industry in Arizona and Kansas City, where he currently lives, responded to WHAS11’s question about his experience with the competitive licensing process. 

“We filled out several applications and we actually weren’t lucky enough to be one of those winners. We actually did have to deploy quite a bit of capital to be able to purchase a license,” Gadea said.

Petarra said all products are clearly marked, with molds stamped “THC” on the bottom to distinguish medical cannabis edibles from regular gummies.

Other licensed processors will open in Kentucky, although the state has not announced the approval of any other facilities yet.

“In order to keep all the shelves full in all of the stores, we can’t be the only one. We will need assistance from other processors,” Gadea said.

Gadea expressed hope the state will release another batch of business licenses, particularly for cultivators who grow raw material. The state has given no indication that additional licenses will be available.

The facility marks what Gadea calls a new beginning for Kentucky patients seeking medical cannabis treatment options.

“Quality comes first, and the patient comes first, and everything follows after that,” Gadea said.