Education6 min read
Lab Results Explained: How to Read Cannabis COAs
Certificates of Analysis (COAs) ensure your cannabis products are safe and accurately labeled. Learn how to read them like a pro.
Published: January 12, 2024
📋 Overview: Lab Results
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document from an independent lab that verifies what's actually in your cannabis or hemp product. Reputable companies provide COAs for every batch, and you should ALWAYS check them before purchasing. COAs protect you from mislabeled products, contaminants, and products with illegal THC levels.
🌿 How CBD & Cannabis Can Help
**What to Look For:** Cannabinoid profile (CBD, THC, CBG, etc. levels), terpene profile, contaminant testing (pesticides, heavy metals, microbials, residual solvents). **Key Numbers:** Total CBD/THC in mg (not just percentage), THC should be under 0.3% for legal hemp. **Red Flags:** No COA available, outdated COAs, missing contaminant testing, COA doesn't match batch number on product. **Good Signs:** QR code linking to current COA, full panel testing, accredited lab (ISO 17025).
💊 Recommended Treatment
Before buying any cannabis product: 1) Request or scan the QR code for the COA. 2) Check that cannabinoid levels match the label claims. 3) Verify all contaminant tests show "Pass" or "ND" (not detected). 4) Confirm the batch number matches your product. 5) Check the lab is third-party and accredited. If a company won't provide a COA, don't buy from them.
References & Sources
- Americans for Safe Access. (2021). Patient's Guide to CBD.
- Leafly. (2022). How to read a certificate of analysis for cannabis.
Disclaimer
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
cannabis COAlab results explainedcertificate of analysisCBD lab testinghemp testingcannabis safetythird party testing
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