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 buzzword in the industry, much like CBD or terpenes, a COA is actually a crucial component in the buying process.
Understanding a COA is key when selecting a hemp or cannabis product. While appearance and aroma can offer some insight into a product, a COA provides a deeper, more detailed view, giving you essential information about the item you’re considering.
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 professionals and consumers.
Common tests conducted by third-party labs typically include:
- Cannabinoid potency
- Terpene profiles
- Detection of mold, pesticides, herbicides, and heavy metals
- Moisture levels (especially important for smokable flower products)
For hemp products, COAs are mandated by federal law to ensure that products meet safety standards and contain no more than 0.3% Delta 9 THC by dry weight.
Cannabis regulations differ from state to state, but one consistent factor across all legal marijuana programs is the requirement for Certificates of Analysis (COAs). These tests serve as a crucial quality control measure, ensuring that brands comply with the safety standards set by each state’s program.
How to Find a COA
There are several ways to locate a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Reputable brands ensure that COAs for all their products are easily accessible to shoppers.
The first method is by visiting the brand’s website. Trustworthy brands make it simple for customers to find the information they need by regularly updating COAs and uploading them directly to the site. This not only benefits the brand by keeping information current but also offers convenience to shoppers.
Another method involves QR codes, which many brands now include on their packaging or directly on the product. Scanning the QR code takes the shopper directly to the COA on the website, making this a popular choice for both brands and customers due to its accessibility, ease of use, and transparency.
You can also find a COA by speaking with an employee at the store where you’re shopping. Stores that sell these products should have COAs available on request. A polite inquiry can quickly get you the information you need.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When reviewing COAs (Certificates of Analysis), there are a couple of red flags to be aware of. First, check the expiration date. Typically, COAs are valid for about a year. Over that period, a product may change and might need to be retested. The expiration date also gives shoppers an idea of the product’s age.
Secondly, if a brand is asked to provide a COA and they refuse, citing that the COA is proprietary information, this is a significant red flag. Withholding a COA can undermine trust between the brand and its customers.
The Bottom Line
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is an essential resource for both brands and consumers. Though it might appear to be just a document, a COA contains a wealth of crucial information. It allows shoppers to verify not only the potency and quality of a product but also its cannabinoid and terpene content.
Understanding how to read a COA is a vital step in purchasing hemp or legal cannabis products. Think of a COA as a treasure map—it guides you to the perfect product that meets your needs.