If you’ve been shopping for CBD, you may have seen the letters COA (Certificate of Analysis) mentioned on a product label or company website. COA for CBD products and labels is a laboratory report that tells you what is in the product.
It may sound technical, but you don’t need to understand every number on the report. Here are a few basics worth checking.
Why Is a COA for CBD Products Important?
A CBD label tells you what the manufacturer says is in the product. A COA gives you additional information based on laboratory testing.
Testing will determine the amount of CBD in the product and whether it matches what’s stated on the label.
Depending on the testing performed, a COA may also provide additional information about THC and potential contaminants.
What to Look for in a COA for CBD Products
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Independent Testing
Ideally, the report should come from an independent third-party laboratory rather than testing performed only by the company selling the product.
The name of the laboratory on the COA should be listed with information identifying the product or sample that was tested.
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Check the CBD and THC Results
One of the easiest places to start is the cannabinoid section.
This section may list CBD, THC and other cannabinoids detected in the sample. Compare the results with the information provided on the product label.
Don’t worry if the report contains unfamiliar abbreviations. What you want to know is whether the laboratory results support what you are buying.
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Contaminant Testing
Depending on the product and laboratory, a COA may include results for substances such as:
Pesticides
Heavy metals
Residual solvents
Microbial contaminants
Don’t assume every COA includes all of these tests. It is necessary that you know what was tested rather than only looking for the words “lab tested.”
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Make Sure the COA Matches Your Product
This is an easy detail to overlook.
Check for a batch or lot number and compare it with the number on your CBD product when possible. Also look at the date of the laboratory report.
A COA from years ago or one that can’t be connected to the product you’re buying isn’t particularly helpful.
Where Can You Find a COA for CBD Products?
Many CBD companies provide COAs on their websites or use a QR code on the product packaging that takes you directly to the laboratory results.
If you can’t find one, ask the company.
A reputable seller should provide information on how its products are tested.
Final Thoughts
A COA for a CBD product won’t tell you whether the product is right for you, but it can help you make a more informed purchasing decision.
Check who performed the testing, compare the cannabinoid results with the label, look at what contaminants were tested and make sure the report corresponds to the product you’re considering.
You don’t have to understand every line. Knowing what to look for is a very good start.
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