With so many CBD products available, how do you spot poor-quality CBD products when buying
Not every CBD product is created equal. Labels can be confusing, quality can vary, and impressive-looking packaging doesn’t always tell you what’s inside.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can check before buying.
Look for Third-Party Lab Testing
One of the first things to look for is independent third-party testing.
Reputable CBD companies often provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) from an independent laboratory. This report can help you verify how much CBD—and THC, if applicable—is in the product.
Depending on the testing performed, a COA may also provide information about contaminants such as pesticides, heavy metals and residual solvents.
The company should make these results relatively easy to find, either on its website, through a QR code on the packaging or by request.
For example, if you were to buy “full-spectrum-cbd-oil-peppermint-1000mg/” at CBD Magic (Canada), after the description, you will see: Lab Result: Certificate of Analysis.
Read the Label Carefully
A good CBD label should tell you what you’re buying.
Look for the amount of CBD in the product, serving information, ingredients and the type of CBD being used—such as full spectrum, broad spectrum or isolate.
Be cautious if important information is missing or if the label makes exaggerated promises about what the product can do. This will help you to spot poor-quality CBD products
Check the Ingredients
CBD isn’t necessarily the only ingredient in a CBD product.
Oils may contain carrier oils and flavourings, while gummies, creams and other products will naturally contain additional ingredients. Read the complete ingredient list, particularly if you have allergies or sensitivities.
If you don’t recognize an ingredient, look it up rather than assuming it is either safe or harmful.
For a better understanding of the difference between CBD and THC, read our article: CBD and THC: What’s the Difference?
Research the Company
Take a few minutes to find out who is actually selling the product.
Does the company provide clear contact information? Does it explain where its CBD or hemp comes from? Can you find information about its manufacturing and testing practices?
A reputable company should be reasonably transparent about what it sells and willing to answer questions about its products.
Be Wary of Big Promises
Claims that sound too good to be true deserve a closer look.
Be particularly cautious of products marketed as miracle cures or claiming to treat or cure a long list of medical conditions. CBD continues to be studied, and responsible companies shouldn’t need exaggerated health claims to sell their products.
Buy From Reputable Sources
Where you purchase CBD matters too.
Buying from an established manufacturer or retailer gives you a better opportunity to research the company, check laboratory results and ask questions before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a CBD product shouldn’t come down to attractive packaging or the biggest number on the bottle.
Check the lab results, read the label, review the ingredients and learn something about the company behind the product.
A few extra minutes of research can help you spot poor-quality CBD products and make a more informed buying decision.