How to Read a CBD Lab Report (COA) in 2 Minutes

A certificate of analysis looks intimidating. It's actually four quick checks.

Check 1: Match the batch number

Find the batch or lot number printed on your bottle (usually on the bottom), then confirm the COA lists the same number. A lab report for a different batch tells you nothing about your bottle.

Check 2: Potency — does the CBD match the label?

The COA lists cannabinoids in mg/g or as a percentage. Multiply through to the full bottle and compare with the label claim. Reputable products land within about 10% of what's printed. If a "1000mg" bottle tests at 600mg, that's a problem.

Check 3: THC — is it under 0.3%?

The report shows delta-9 THC content. For hemp-derived products it must be below 0.3% by dry weight. "Broad spectrum" or "THC-free" products should show THC as non-detectable (ND).

Check 4: Contaminants — the pass/fail panel

A complete COA tests for more than cannabinoids. Look for PASS results on:

Heavy metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury) — hemp absorbs these from soil
Pesticides — a full multi-residue screen, not just one or two compounds
Microbials (E. coli, salmonella, mold/yeast counts)
Residual solvents — relevant for extracted products

If a brand only shows you potency and skips the contaminant panel, you're seeing half the picture.

Bonus: check the lab itself

The COA should name the testing laboratory and ideally show ISO 17025 accreditation. A report from "our in-house lab" isn't third-party testing.

See brands that publish lab reports

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