If you’ve ever shopped for hemp or cannabis products, you’ve likely come across the term COA. While it might seem like just another industry buzzword alongside CBD or terpene, a COA is actually a crucial component in your purchasing decision.
Understanding a COA is essential when buying hemp or cannabis products. While appearance and aroma can provide some insight, a COA offers a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the product you’re considering, giving you a clearer view of its quality and contents.
What does COA Stand For?
COA is short for Certificate of Analysis. They are the third-party testing results of a laboratory licensed to test for a variety of things. These items can be required by state or federal law (depending on if the product is derived from hemp or marijuana).
What Information Does a COA Contain?
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) provides valuable insights for both industry professionals and consumers.
Typically, these third-party labs test for several key factors, including:
- Cannabinoid potency
- Terpene levels
- Presence of contaminants such as mold, pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals
- Moisture content (especially important for smokable flower products)
For hemp products, federal law mandates COAs to ensure that all items meet safety standards and contain less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight.
For cannabis products, legal marijuana programs vary state by state. However, COAs are a common element among all of them. This testing is a quality control measure to help ensure brands are adhering to all safety standards outlined by the individual state program.
How to Find a COA
There are several methods to access a Certificate of Analysis (COA), and reputable brands ensure that these documents are readily available for their customers.
Firstly, check the brand’s website. Reliable companies make it a priority to keep COAs easily accessible online. By uploading the most current COAs to their website, brands provide a convenient way for customers to access this information anytime.
Another growing trend is the use of QR codes. Many brands enhance the shopping experience by placing QR codes on product packaging. Scanning these codes can directly link to the COA on the brand’s website, offering a quick and transparent way for consumers to verify product details.
Additionally, you can ask for the COA at the store where you’re shopping. Retailers that stock these products often keep copies of COAs on hand. A simple request to a store employee can provide you with the necessary information.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When evaluating Certificates of Analysis (COAs), there are a few key red flags to watch for. First, check the COA’s expiration date. Typically, COAs are valid for about a year. After this period, a product might change and could need retesting. The expiration date can also give you an indication of how old the product is.
Another important point is a brand’s response when asked for a COA. If a brand claims that the COA is proprietary and refuses to provide it, this is a significant red flag. A refusal to share a COA can erode trust between the brand and its customers.
The Bottom Line
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is an invaluable resource for both brands and consumers. Although it may seem like just a piece of paper, a COA provides a wealth of essential information. It allows shoppers to verify potency, assess quality, and understand cannabinoid and terpene content.
Understanding how to interpret a COA is crucial when shopping for hemp or legal cannabis products. Think of a COA as a treasure map—it guides you to the perfect product that meets your specific needs.