Products & Transparency
Understanding what's in a cannabis product — and how to verify it — is one of the most important skills a consumer or patient can have. This guide covers COA interpretation, testing standards, and what to look for by product type.
The Golden Rule
Never buy a cannabis product without a current, third-party COA. A Certificate of Analysis from an accredited, independent laboratory is the only way to verify what a product actually contains — and what it doesn't.
- COA should be from an ISO/IEC 17025-accredited lab
- Test date should be within 12 months
- Batch number on COA must match product label
- Lab should be independent — not owned by the brand
How to Read a Certificate of Analysis
A COA contains multiple testing panels. Here's what each one means, what to look for, and what should raise concerns.
Lists cannabinoid concentrations — CBD, THC, CBG, CBN, etc. — as a percentage or mg/g. This is the most important panel for consumers. Look for total THC and total CBD (which include decarboxylated forms: THCA × 0.877 + Δ9-THC = Total THC).
- Total THC and Total CBD calculated correctly
- Multiple cannabinoids listed (not just CBD)
- Results match label claims within ±10%
- No decarboxylation calculation shown
- Only "CBD" listed without specifying which form
- Potency far exceeds industry norms without explanation
Testing Requirements by Product Type
Different product formats require different testing panels. Here's what to expect — and demand — for each.
Understanding Lab Accreditation
Not all cannabis labs are equal. Here's how to evaluate whether a lab's results can be trusted.
ISO/IEC 17025 Accreditation
The international standard for testing laboratory competence. Accredited labs undergo regular audits. Look for accreditation from A2LA, PJLA, or state-recognized bodies.
Independence
The lab should have no financial relationship with the brand being tested. Vertically integrated labs (owned by the same company) present a conflict of interest.
Method Validation
Labs should use validated analytical methods — HPLC for potency, LC-MS/MS for pesticides, ICP-MS for heavy metals. Ask for method documentation if needed.
Proficiency Testing
Accredited labs participate in proficiency testing programs — blind samples sent to verify accuracy. Results should be available upon request.
Understand What's in Your Product
Browse our cannabinoid and terpene guides to understand the compounds in your COA — and what they mean for effects and safety.