How do you identify a reputable CBD company? We’ve gathered a list of must have items to help you on your search. Here are our top 5:
Certificate of Analysis (COA) – Can the company provide you with a lot-specific COA that lists the CBD and THC content verified by a third-party testing lab? It’s important to know that what’s on the label is what is really inside. A COA should tell you that exact information and more! The COA will also list the third-party testing lab that performed the analysis and their contact information, contaminants, herbicides, pesticides, and terpene profile. It should also list the CBD company name as well as product lot number.
Correct Labeling – This may surprise you, but we’ve actually seen a company that listed serving size amounts that didn’t match, i.e. 1 dropperful = (2mL), when the full dropper was labeled as 1mL. These types of inconsistencies make it impossible to know exactly how much CBD you’re really taking. You’ll also see many bottles labeled at 375mg or 750mg. That typically means the total amount of CBD in the bottle is 375mg or 750mg, though some companies use that as either the total hemp extract or total cannabinoids in the bottle. This is different than CBD concentration! You should verify that the mg/mL of CBD on the lab test, multiplied by the total mL in the container, equals total CBD content listed on the bottle.
Lot Number – If there isn’t a lot number on the product, move on to the next company. You can’t correctly utilize a COA without a lot number identifier on the bottle.
Vendor Qualifications – You’re putting the work in to qualify your CBD supplier, but what steps are they taking when sourcing the ingredients going into the final product? It’s important to know what practices the CBD company you’re considering utilizes when determining where THEY are getting their raw materials. A legitimate company has Standards of Practice (SOPs) in place to qualify any vendors prior to procurement. Quality checks must be in place at every step of the process, from the plant to the finished product.
Satisfaction Guarantee – A company that truly stands behind their product will offer a satisfaction guarantee. Make sure the company you select has a return policy before you purchase.
