The Certificate of Analysis is the most important document in cannabis — the only way to independently verify what is actually in a product. Most consumers have never read one. This guide explains every section.
What Is a COA?
A COA is a document from an accredited third-party laboratory confirming chemical analysis of a specific batch. Responsible brands like West Coast Treez include a QR code on every product linking to the batch-specific COA.
Section 1: Sample Information
Identifies the batch number, sample date, product type and testing laboratory. Verify the lab holds a current state licence — unlicensed lab results are meaningless.
Section 2: Cannabinoid Profile
- THC (Delta-9) — Primary psychoactive cannabinoid, percentage by weight
- THCA — Non-psychoactive acid precursor. Total THC = (THCA × 0.877) + THC
- CBD, CBG, CBN, CBC — Minor cannabinoids contributing to the entourage effect
Section 3: Terpene Profile
Total terpene content above 2% indicates high-quality flower with complex effects. Key terpenes: myrcene, limonene, caryophyllene, pinene, linalool.
Section 4: Safety Panels (Most Critical)
- Pesticides — Any “Fail” is a serious red flag
- Heavy metals — Lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury must pass
- Residual solvents — Critical for extracts and vapes
- Microbials — Mould, yeast, E. coli, Salmonella screening
View West Coast Treez lab results at https://westcoasttreez.us/lab-results.
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West Coast Treez Editorial Team
Cannabis education specialists with expertise in West Coast cultivation, strain genetics, and lab-testing standards. All content reviewed for accuracy and compliance.
Licensed cannabis information · California, Oregon & Washington · View our lab results →
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