How to Read a Certificate of Analysis

Certificate of Analysis Nature's Green House

The cannabis plant contains compounds that may lead to undesired effects. Studies conducted by The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) show some inconsistencies in product labels and the actual potency of the content. It is, therefore, important to learn how to read a COA (Certificate of Analysis) before settling on a product. 

Whether you are using medical marijuana or CBD products for leisure in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304, Nature’s Green House provides third-party verified COA to help you select a product that suits your needs. For any clarification, contact us today. Otherwise, read on to learn more.

WHY ARE INACCURATE LABELS SO COMMON?

The main reason for inaccurate labeling is the absence of federal or state controls in the cannabinoid products industry. Since the industry is in its infancy stage, some manufacturers may partner with unverified laboratories that run the risk of generating inaccurate data. With inadequate controls, the inaccurately labeled products find their way into dispensaries and other cannabis product outlets.

So how do you select the right cannabinoid product or verify its safety? Read the Certificate of Analysis (COA).

WHAT IS A CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS?

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a report published by a certified third-party laboratory providing details of active compounds in your cannabinoid product. The cannabis or hemp plant contains THC, CBD, CBG, or CBN compounds. Each compound acts differently on your body when consumed. It is crucial to learn how to read a COA, as the certificate provides insights into the active compounds and their concentration.

WHERE TO FIND THE COA?

Various companies print QR codes on the product’s packaging. You can scan the code to get the full COA report. The QR code also helps you in COA testing. If the product does not have a QR code, it should provide the company’s website where you can access the COA. If you do not get the QR code or the website, call the manufacturer before buying the product.

HOW TO READ A CERTIFICATE OF ANALYSIS

At the top of the COA, you should get the product name, the batch number, the testing date, and the company that ordered the test. The batch number should match the report date. Contact the manufacturer if the batch number and the date do not match. 

Most reports provide details of all compounds present in the product in milligrams per gram. Some reports may show a limit of quantitation (LOQ) in percentage. The report should give you an analysis of the following:

Cannabinoid Concentration

Under the Potency Test Profiles, you get the concentration of active compounds such as THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN. CBD hemp-based product in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304 should have a 0.3% or lower THC concentration. Contact us to learn more.

Terpene Profile

The Terpene Profile provides details of compounds that give the plant its distinct natural aroma. The same glands produce terpene and cannabinoids, and you may find the former in Potency Test Profiles.

Flavonoid Test Profile

A flavonoid test profile gives details of chemical compounds that give the plant its color. The flavonoids can cause biochemical reactions in your body.

Residual Solvents

The residual solvent profile provides details of traces of solvents used in the extraction.

Microbiological Testing

A microbiological testing rules out the presence of biological contaminants like molds, yeast, or salmonella in the product.

Synthetic Cannabinoids

A synthetic cannabinoid is an artificial compound similar to THC sprayed on the product to make consumers feel high.

Heavy Metals

If the report shows the product has traces of heavy metals such as lead, it should not be consumed.

Find the Best CBD Products in Florida

If you are looking for quality CBD products in Florida, look no further. Nature’s Green House manufactures and sells the best CBD products in Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304. For more information on how to read a COA, contact us today.