As the hemp industry grows, an expanding variety of hemp products is appearing on store shelves nationwide. With each new discovery about this remarkable plant, the assortment of available goods continues to expand. However, for many shoppers, whether they are newcomers or seasoned enthusiasts, finding a high-quality product can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Fortunately, there are strategies that shoppers can use to find the products they desire while minimizing the risk of selecting a subpar one. Here are some methods to help ensure you get a quality product:
Does the Product Have a COA?
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document that provides the results of third-party testing from a certified laboratory. COAs contain crucial information about hemp-based products, including:
- THC potency
- The cannabinoids present in the product
- Any contaminants found in the product
- The date when the product was manufactured and/or tested
- The presence of pesticides, herbicides, molds, etc.
By law, every hemp product must be accompanied by a COA. This serves as a quality control measure and ensures that the product complies with federal and state regulations.
Read the Reviews
Spending time to read product reviews before making a purchase is a wise investment that can save both time and money in the long run. Companies that value honesty and transparency encourage customer feedback, providing potential buyers with valuable insights. By exploring reviews, newcomers can gain essential perspectives on what to expect from the products they’re considering.
Like the details found in a Certificate of Analysis (COA), product reviews offer a wealth of information, such as:
- How individuals felt after using a product
- Any side effects experienced, whether positive or negative
- What individuals liked or disliked about a product
What Educational Information Does the Brand Provide?
A brand may provide top-tier products, but without proper customer knowledge on their usage, the full experience won’t be realized. This highlights the importance of investing in customer education for any reputable brand.
The methods for delivering education can differ depending on factors such as the target audience, product type, and business model. Nevertheless, some common sources for informational and educational content are:
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
- A blog on the brand’s website
- YouTube videos
- Podcasts
What Contact Information Does the Brand Provide?
Trustworthy and transparent brands prioritize being easily accessible to their customers, ensuring that any inquiries or issues are promptly addressed. This dedication builds trust and fosters a strong bond between the consumer and the brand.
Brands often use the following methods to share their contact details:
- Emails
- Phone numbers
- Live Chat
While the types of contact information may vary from brand to brand, quality brands ensure their customers can reach them easily and quickly.
How do Brands Use AI?
Regardless of your opinion on artificial intelligence, it is here to stay and is actively being utilized. For shoppers, the key focus should be on how AI is being employed, rather than whether it’s being used at all. When it comes to marketing hemp-based products, consider asking the following questions:
- Is AI being used to enhance the consumer experience, or is it merely replacing quality content?
- Are brands using AI-generated images instead of real photos?
- Do any AI images used infringe on copyright laws?
Quality brands will be selective in their use of AI. In contrast, fly-by-night brands might use AI to create an appearance of transparency while still falling short of genuine quality.
The Bottom Line
Navigating the variety of hemp-based products can be challenging, even for experienced shoppers. However, using the tools mentioned earlier can simplify the process, saving you time, money, and reducing stress. By incorporating these quality assurance methods into your search, you can ensure a satisfying purchasing experience.