Most brands hope you never ask for it. Learn how to read a Certificate of Analysis (COA) — and why any reputable botanical brand publishes one openly.
What is a COA?
A third-party report — not a marketing claim
A Certificate of Analysis is an independent lab document that confirms exactly what a product contains. It covers potency, purity, and contamination screening — including heavy metals and microbial load.
If a brand won't share their COA — or doesn't have one — that tells you everything you need to know.
How to read it
Three things to check before you trust any COA
- Who ran the test? It must be an independent, accredited laboratory — not the brand's own in-house facility. Look for ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation or a recognized third-party certifier.
- Does the batch number match? Any brand can post an old report. The batch or lot number on the COA must correspond to the product you're actually purchasing.
- Check the date Lab results age out. A COA from two years ago doesn't reflect what's in today's batch. A trustworthy brand tests each new batch and publishes updated reports promptly.
What good looks like
Get instant access to our full lab reports
We publish third-party, batch-matched COAs for every product — no gatekeeping, no request forms. Subscribe to receive direct access and notifications when new batches are tested.
How it works
- Enter your email — takes 5 seconds
- Check your inbox — we'll send the COA access link
- Read the reports — full transparency, every batch, every product
Disclaimer: This article is written for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, legal, or regulatory advice. The information presented is based on published scientific literature and is intended to explain research findings — not to promote, endorse, or recommend any product or substance. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your health.