Last Updated: May 2026 | Astria Farm Educational Series
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document from an accredited third-party laboratory that verifies the contents of a hemp product. It tells you exactly what cannabinoids are present, at what concentrations, and whether the product is free of contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and residual solvents.
A COA is the most important document you can review before buying any hemp product. Here is how to read one.
Why COAs Matter
The hemp industry is not uniformly regulated, which means product quality varies widely between brands. Without third-party lab testing, there is no way to verify that a product contains what the label claims — or that it is safe to consume. A COA from an accredited lab closes that gap.
Rule of thumb: if a hemp brand cannot provide a COA for every product, do not buy from them.
What a COA Includes
Cannabinoid Profile
This section shows every cannabinoid detected in the product and its concentration. You will see listings for Delta-9 THC, Delta-8 THC, THCA, CBD, CBG, CBN, and others depending on the product type. This confirms the product matches what is on the label.
Delta-9 THC Compliance
For hemp products to be federally legal, Delta-9 THC must be at or below 0.3% by dry weight. The COA will clearly show whether the product passes this threshold.
Pesticide Testing
Shows whether any agricultural pesticides were detected in the hemp used to make the product. A passing result means pesticide levels are below allowable limits.
Heavy Metals Testing
Hemp is a bioaccumulator — it absorbs compounds from the soil, including heavy metals like lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium. A COA confirms these are within safe limits.
Residual Solvents
For extracts and concentrates, this panel confirms that no harmful solvents used in the extraction process remain in the final product.
Microbials
Tests for harmful bacteria, mold, and other microbial contaminants that could pose health risks.
What Makes a COA Trustworthy?
- Issued by a DEA-registered or ISO-accredited laboratory
- Sample tested matches the batch number on the product
- Test date is recent — ideally within the past 12 months
- Lab is independent — not owned by or affiliated with the brand
Astria Farm products are tested by DEA-certified third-party laboratories. Every COA is available directly on our product pages so you can verify before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find Astria Farm’s COAs?
COAs are available on each individual product page at astriafarm.com/. Look for the “See Lab Results” link on any product.
What does it mean if a COA shows ND?
ND stands for Not Detected. It means the tested compound was not found at measurable levels in the sample.
Can COAs be faked?
While not impossible, reputable brands use lab portals that allow you to verify the COA directly with the testing laboratory. Look for a QR code or verification link on the COA.