Why Third-Party Testing Matters

In an unregulated market, third-party testing is the gold standard for verifying CBD product quality. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document from an independent laboratory that details exactly what’s in your CBD product — and just as importantly, what isn’t.

Reputable CBD companies make their COAs readily available. If a brand doesn’t provide lab results, consider it a major red flag.

Key Sections of a COA

A comprehensive COA typically includes several important sections:

  • Cannabinoid profile: Lists the concentrations of CBD, THC, CBG, CBN, CBC, and other cannabinoids present in the product
  • Terpene profile: Identifies the terpenes present and their concentrations
  • Heavy metals testing: Screens for lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium
  • Pesticide screening: Tests for common agricultural chemicals
  • Microbial testing: Checks for mold, bacteria, and other harmful microorganisms
  • Residual solvents: Ensures extraction solvents have been properly removed

Understanding Cannabinoid Potency

The cannabinoid profile is typically the first section you’ll review. Look for:

  • Total CBD content: Does it match what’s on the label? A reputable product should be within 10% of its stated potency
  • THC levels: Legal hemp products must contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC
  • Minor cannabinoids: In full-spectrum products, you should see CBG, CBN, CBC, and others listed

Results are typically presented in both milligrams per gram (mg/g) and percentage form. Multiply mg/g by the total product volume to calculate total cannabinoid content.

What Contaminant Results Should Look Like

For heavy metals, pesticides, and microbial tests, you want to see results listed as “ND” (not detected) or “pass.” Any positive findings for contaminants should be below established safety thresholds.

Pay particular attention to heavy metals testing. Hemp is a bioaccumulator, meaning it absorbs substances from the soil — including potentially harmful metals if grown in contaminated soil.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if you encounter any of these issues:

  • COA is outdated (more than 12 months old)
  • Batch numbers don’t match your product
  • Significant discrepancy between labeled and tested potency
  • Missing contaminant testing sections
  • Lab is not ISO-accredited
  • Company refuses to provide COA upon request

King Harvest’s Commitment to Transparency

At King Harvest, every batch of our products undergoes comprehensive third-party testing. We believe transparency is non-negotiable when it comes to your health. Our COAs are always available upon request, covering full cannabinoid profiling, terpene analysis, and complete contaminant screening.