If you’ve ever purchased hemp or cannabis products, you’ve likely encountered the term COA. While it might sound like just another industry buzzword like CBD or terpene, a COA—Certificate of Analysis—is actually a crucial component.
Grasping the significance of a COA is essential when shopping for hemp or cannabis products. Although visual and olfactory cues can provide some information, a COA offers a detailed, thorough insight into the product you’re thinking of buying.
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 information for both industry experts and consumers.
Typical tests conducted by third-party laboratories include:
- Cannabinoid potency
- Terpene profiles
- Detection of contaminants like mold, pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals
- Moisture levels (particularly important for smokable flower products)
For hemp-derived products, COAs are mandated by federal regulations to verify that they 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 ways to access a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for products, and reputable brands ensure their COAs are readily available to customers.
One method is to visit the brand’s website. Reputable companies prioritize transparency and make it easy for customers to find COA information directly on their site. This approach ensures that the COAs are always up-to-date and accessible, benefiting both the brand and the shopper.
Another convenient method is through QR codes. Many brands enhance the shopping experience by including QR codes on their packaging. Scanning these codes with a smartphone can instantly direct you to the COA on the brand’s website. This practice has become increasingly popular for its ease of use and transparency.
You can also obtain a COA by asking a store employee. Retailers that carry these products often keep copies of the COAs on hand. A polite inquiry can help you get the information you need.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When evaluating COAs (Certificates of Analysis), be mindful of a couple of potential issues. First, check the COA expiration date. Typically, COAs remain valid for about a year. Over time, a product might change, and retesting could be necessary. The expiration date also helps indicate the age of the product.
Second, if a brand is asked for a COA and responds by claiming it is proprietary information, this is a red flag. A refusal to provide a COA can erode trust between the brand and its customers.
The Bottom Line
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a crucial resource for both brands and consumers. Though it may appear as just a document, a COA provides a wealth of detailed information. It allows consumers to verify potency and quality, as well as the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of a product.
Understanding how to interpret a COA is essential when shopping for hemp or legal cannabis products. Think of it as a treasure map—it guides you toward finding the perfect product tailored to your needs.