A controlled dispensing system includes a dispensing fixture and a server system coupled to the dispensing fixture and a mobile device via a communication network. The server system receives from the mobile device identification data of a user of the mobile device and verifies an identity or age of the user. In accordance with the verifying of the identity or age of the user, the server system transmits to the mobile device dispense approval data including an indication that the identity or age of the user is verified. The dispensing fixture obtains via an input peripheral a dispense code provided by the mobile device, the dispense code corresponding to the dispense approval data, and in accordance with the dispense code, causes a dispensing mechanism to dispense the controlled product.