Quality · documentation

How to read a COA: what does it actually show?

A Certificate of Analysis is a laboratory report. It is useful only when product, batch, date, method, units and results clearly belong together. It does not automatically prove every quality or safety aspect.

Last editorial review: 3 September 2026Good Nature Vibe editorial team

In brief

Match product and batch or lot number.

Read unit, method and report date together.

“Not detected” depends on detection and quantification limits.

ItemCheckWhy
Identityproduct and batchavoids attaching another sample
Datesample and report dateshows context
Methodtechnique and scopedefines what was tested
LOD/LOQreporting limitsexplains ND and low results
Unit%, mg/g, mg/ml or otherprevents false comparison

Five checks before the result

  • product or sample description;
  • batch or lot number;
  • laboratory and report date;
  • method and unit;
  • LOD, LOQ or reporting limits.

Not detected is not absolute zero

A laboratory reports within the limits of its method. ND normally means not detected above a stated limit.

What a COA does not prove by itself

A cannabinoid profile does not automatically cover microbiology, pesticides, heavy metals, stability, labelling or individual suitability.

Sources and boundaries

Good Nature Vibe

This page helps you read product information. It is not medical, health or dosage advice. The current product specification, sales status and applicable law remain decisive.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Does a COA mean everything was tested?

No. It covers only the listed analyses and sample.

What are LOD and LOQ?

LOD is the detection limit; LOQ is the level above which a value can be quantified under the method.

Can I compare two COAs?

Only carefully when product matrix, method, unit and limits are comparable.

Why is there no COA for every product?

We show a document only when it is available, relevant and linked to the product or batch.