certificate of analysis: a light dive

how to read COAs for cannabis products with hai.

certificates of analysis (coas) are packed with information, but the technical language can feel overwhelming if you don't know what you're looking at. this guide breaks down some of the key sections you'll see on a coa using our basil bomb live rosin as an example.

what is a certificate of analysis?

a certificate of analysis, or coa, is an independent lab report that verifies what's inside a cannabis product and confirms that it has passed required safety testing.

think of it as a background check for your cannabis. it helps ensure the product is accurately labeled, free of harmful contaminants, and safe to consume.

potency & cannabinoids 🌿

this section measures the active compounds found in the product.

total thc: 73.14%

thc (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary cannabinoid responsible for the psychoactive effects associated with cannabis.

with a total thc content of 73.14%, there is approximately 731.4mg of thc in this 1g jar.

total cannabinoids: 88.32%

cannabinoids are naturally occurring compounds found in cannabis that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system.

with 88.32% total cannabinoids, this jar contains approximately 883.2mg of cannabinoids, including thc and other compounds that contribute to the overall experience.

terpene profile 🌿

terpenes are the aromatic compounds that give cannabis its unique flavors, aromas, and nuanced effects.

this basil bomb batch contains 5.24% total terpenes, helping create its distinct flavor profile and experience.

beta-caryophyllene — 1.85%

typically associated with:

  • woody notes

  • peppery spice

  • warm earthiness

limonene — 0.92%

typically associated with:

  • bright citrus aromas

  • lemon zest notes

  • uplifting sensory characteristics

alpha-humulene

typically associated with:

  • earthy tones

  • herbal qualities

  • subtle woody notes

while thc often gets the spotlight, terpenes play a major role in shaping flavor, aroma, and the overall character of a strain.

safety check: is it clean? 🌿

one of the most important parts of any coa is confirming the product has passed safety testing.

residual solvents: passed

solvents are chemicals sometimes used during extraction processes.

because hai. products are solventless, there should be no harmful residual solvents present.

microbials & mold: passed

the product is tested for harmful contaminants including:

  • e. coli

  • salmonella

  • yeast

  • mold

this batch passed all microbial testing requirements.

heavy metals: passed

cannabis can absorb substances from the environment as it grows, which is why testing is important.

this batch was screened for contaminants such as:

  • mercury

  • lead

  • arsenic

  • cadmium

and passed all safety standards.

why coas matter

a coa provides transparency into what you're consuming.

it allows consumers to:

  • verify potency

  • understand terpene profiles

  • review cannabinoid content

  • confirm safety testing

  • make more informed purchasing decisions

at hai., we believe understanding what's inside your products is part of building a better relationship with cannabis.

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