If you’ve ever bought hemp or cannabis products, you’ve likely come across the term COA. While it might seem like just another industry term like CBD or terpene, a COA is actually a crucial element.
A COA, or Certificate of Analysis, plays a vital role in evaluating hemp or cannabis products. Although visual and olfactory cues can provide some insights, a COA offers a detailed and comprehensive analysis of the product you’re considering, giving you a deeper understanding 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 experts and consumers.
Typical tests conducted by third-party labs include:
- Cannabinoid potency: Measures the concentration of active compounds.
- Terpene content: Identifies the aromatic compounds that contribute to flavor and aroma.
- Contaminant testing: Checks for mold, pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals.
- Moisture content: Assesses the moisture level, particularly for smokable flower products.
For hemp products, COAs are mandated by federal law to ensure 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
Finding a Certificate of Analysis (COA) can be straightforward if you know where to look. Reputable brands ensure that COAs for all their products are easily accessible to customers.
One way to find a COA is by visiting the brand’s website. Trusted brands often upload COAs directly to their sites, making it simple for shoppers to access the information they need. This method not only benefits the brand by streamlining the process but also provides convenience for the shopper.
Another effective method is using QR codes. Many brands now include QR codes on their product packaging, which, when scanned, direct shoppers to the COA on the brand’s website. This approach has gained popularity due to its ease of use, accessibility, and enhanced transparency.
If you prefer a more personal touch, you can ask a store employee for the COA. Retailers that sell these products typically have COAs available for review. A polite inquiry can often provide you with the information you need.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When reviewing COAs (Certificates of Analysis), there are a few key red flags to be aware of. First, check the expiration date on the COA. Typically, COAs are valid for about a year, and a product may need retesting if it’s older than that. The expiration date also gives insight into how recent the product’s testing is.
Another important point is how a brand responds when asked for a COA. If a brand refuses to provide a COA by claiming it’s proprietary information, this is a warning sign. Transparency is crucial, and 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 essential asset for both brands and consumers. Although it may appear as just a document, a COA contains a wealth of information. It allows shoppers to verify potency and quality, as well as the cannabinoid and terpene profiles of the product.
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 can guide you to the perfect product tailored to your needs.