What is a COA?
If you’ve ever bought hemp or cannabis products, you might have encountered the term COA. While it might seem like just another industry jargon alongside terms like CBD or terpene, a COA is actually a crucial document.
Understanding a COA is essential when shopping for hemp or cannabis products. Although appearance and aroma can provide some insights, a COA offers a detailed and thorough analysis of the product you’re considering. This document helps you make more informed decisions by providing in-depth information about the product’s quality and composition.
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.
Third-party labs typically test for several key factors, including:
- Cannabinoid potency
- Terpene levels
- Presence of contaminants such as mold, pesticides, herbicides, or heavy metals
- Moisture content (especially for smokable flower products)
For hemp products, federal regulations mandate COAs to ensure that all products 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 locate a Certificate of Analysis (COA), and reputable brands ensure that these documents are readily accessible to their customers.
One straightforward way is to visit the brand’s website. Reputable companies aim to provide easy access to COAs by uploading them directly to their site. This approach benefits both the brand and the shopper by keeping the information current and easily available.
Another popular method is through QR codes. Many brands enhance the shopping experience by including QR codes on their packaging. Scanning a QR code with a smartphone can instantly direct you to the COA on the brand’s website, making it simple to access detailed product information. This trend is gaining traction for its convenience and transparency.
Lastly, you can inquire with store employees. Stores that stock these products typically have COAs available upon request. A polite request can help you obtain the information you need directly from the staff.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
When reviewing Certificates of Analysis (COAs), watch out for a couple of key warning signs. First, check the COA’s expiration date. Typically, COAs are valid for about a year, after which a product might need retesting due to potential changes. The expiration date also helps indicate the age of the product.
Another red flag is if a brand refuses to provide a COA by claiming it is proprietary information. Such a denial can undermine trust, as transparency is crucial for building confidence between a brand and its customers.
The Bottom Line
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is an essential resource for both brands and consumers. Though it may appear as just a document, a COA provides a wealth of detailed information. It allows shoppers to verify the potency and quality of products, as well as their cannabinoid and terpene content.
Understanding how to interpret a COA is crucial when selecting hemp or legal cannabis products. Think of a COA as a treasure map; it guides you to the perfect product to meet your specific needs.
