Lab reports & batches
How to read a medical cannabis certificate of analysis
A certificate of analysis is useful only when it can be tied to the medicine in front of you. Start with identity and batch matching, then read what was actually tested, the units, method and result.
1. Match the report to the medicine.
Look for product name, manufacturer or supplier, batch or lot number, sample identifier and dates. If the batch on the report does not match the dispensed pack, do not use it as evidence for that pack.
2. Identify who tested what.
Check the laboratory identity, report status, sample description, test method and whether accreditation or scope information is supplied. A supplier summary is not the same document as a signed laboratory result.
3. Read cannabinoids with their units.
THC, THCA, CBD and CBDA are different analytes. Results may appear as percentages, milligrams per gram, milligrams per millilitre or another unit. “Total THC” may be calculated from acidic and neutral forms using a stated formula. Do not compare numbers until the analyte and unit match.
4. Read limits correctly.
“Not detected,” below a limit of detection and below a limit of quantification are not identical claims of absolute zero. A pass/fail specification is also different from the measured result.
5. Terpenes and other panels.
A terpene panel may list individual compounds and units. Contaminant panels can cover categories such as microbiology, pesticides, heavy metals or residual solvents, but the exact tests and specifications vary. Do not infer that an unlisted panel passed.
6. Use the COA as evidence, not a dosing tool.
A matching COA can explain why batch chemistry matters and help frame a factual question for the pharmacy. It cannot tell you to change amount, frequency, route or product. Raise a mismatch, unexpected result or missing report with the dispensing pharmacy.
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