How to read a hemp lab report

Updated October 27, 2026

1. It's from an independent lab

The report should name a third-party testing lab, not the brand itself. Many labs list an accreditation such as ISO/IEC 17025, which means their testing methods are independently audited.

2. The batch number matches your package

A COA covers one batch. Find the batch or lot number on the package and make sure it's the same one on the report. A COA for a different batch tells you little about the product in your hand.

3. The date is recent

Look at the test date. A report from years ago, or a date after the product's manufacture date that doesn't make sense, is a red flag.

4. The cannabinoid numbers

• Delta-9 THC: the main intoxicating compound.
• THCA: turns into delta-9 THC when heated.
• Total THC: labs and regulators calculate it as delta-9 THC + (0.877 × THCA). Texas now uses total THC for compliance.
• CBD: the non-intoxicating compound in CBD products.
• "ND" means not detected. "LOQ" is the lowest amount the lab can reliably measure.

Edibles are often reported in milligrams per gram or per unit. Multiply by the weight or count to compare with the label. If the label says 5 mg per gummy, the COA should land close to that.

5. Contaminant testing

A full-panel COA also tests for pesticides, heavy metals (like lead and arsenic), residual solvents, and microbes like mold and bacteria. Look for "Pass" next to each. Some reports only test potency; a full panel is better.