A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a lab report that shows what is in a CBD product. Reading one takes a few minutes and tells you far more than any label. Here is how to read the main sections.
1. Check that the report matches the product
At the top of the COA you will find the lab’s name, the client, the sample name, a batch or lot number and the dates the sample was received and tested. Make sure the product name and batch match what you are buying. A report for a different product or an old batch does not tell you much.
2. Read the cannabinoid profile
The main table lists each cannabinoid the lab tested for, usually with results in percent and in milligrams per gram or per serving. Look for:
- CBD: the amount of cannabidiol in the sample.
- Total CBD: CBD plus converted CBDA (Total CBD = CBD + CBDA × 0.877). See CBDA vs. CBD.
- Other cannabinoids: the lab tests for many compounds, including THC. On a product made with CBD isolate, these should read ND.
3. Understand ND and LOQ
ND means “not detected.” LOQ (limit of quantitation) is the smallest amount the lab can measure reliably with its method. A result below the LOQ is reported as ND or “<LOQ.”
4. Compare the result to the label
Multiply the mg per gram by the product’s weight, or read the per-serving column, and compare it with the label. Small differences are normal. Large gaps mean the label is not accurate.
5. Look for contaminant testing
A full panel also tests for pesticides, heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury), microbes such as mold, yeast and bacteria, mycotoxins and residual solvents. Each line should show a pass or a result below the limit.
6. Check who tested it
Third-party labs that are ISO/IEC 17025 accredited follow recognized quality standards. The lab’s accreditation is usually shown on the report.
See our lab reports
Every product we sell links its COA. Open them from any product page or from our lab results page.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Our products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is general information, not medical or legal advice. Talk to your doctor before using CBD, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or take medication.