How to Read a COA: Making Sure Your THCA Flower is Legit

In the booming world of THCA flower, it’s easy to get swept up in hype—high percentages, designer strain names, flashy jars. But if you’re serious about smoking clean, potent, and legal bud, there’s one thing that matters more than marketing: the Certificate of Analysis (COA).

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just getting into THCA, knowing how to read a COA is the best way to make sure your flower is legit. In this guide, we’ll break it all down—no fluff, no jargon—so you know exactly what you’re inhaling and why it matters.

What Is a COA?

A Certificate of Analysis is a lab-issued document that breaks down the chemical makeup of your THCA flower. It’s not optional—it’s federally required for hemp-derived cannabis products under the 2018 Farm Bill. COAs confirm potency, purity, and most importantly, legal compliance.

TL;DR:

If your brand can’t provide a COA, don’t buy from them.

Key Sections of a COA and What to Look For

1. Cannabinoid Profile

This is the heart of the COA. It shows the percentage of cannabinoids like:

• THCA – The precursor to THC that converts when heated.
  
  

• Δ9-THC – The psychoactive compound. Legally must be under 0.3% on a dry weight basis.
  
  

• CBD, CBG, CBN – Minor cannabinoids that may contribute to the entourage effect.
  
  

✅ What You Want to See:

• High THCA (typically between 20–35%)
  
  

• Δ9-THC below 0.3% (this is key to staying federally compliant)
  
  

• Bonus if it shows minor cannabinoids and not just the big names
  
  

2. Total THC vs. Δ9-THC

A lot of confusion comes from how THC is reported. Here’s the cheat sheet:

• THCA ≠ THC until it’s heated.
  
  

• Total THC = THCA × 0.877 + Δ9-THC
  
  

That number is what matters legally. Most flower stays under the 0.3% Δ9 requirement, even if total THC (post-decarb) looks high.

If your total THC seems sky-high but Δ9 is low, you’re still in the clear.

3. Terpene Profile (If Included)

Not all labs test for this, but high-quality brands (like Alive & Well) often include it. Terpenes affect aroma, flavor, and effects.

Common ones to look for:

• Myrcene – sedative, earthy
  
  

• Limonene – citrus, uplifting
  
  

• Caryophyllene – peppery, anti-inflammatory
  
  

A robust terpene profile often means fresher, more flavorful flower.

4. Moisture Content

Ideally between 8% and 12%.

Too dry = harsh smoke.
Too wet = risk of mold.

Moisture matters not just for smoking quality, but for safety.

5. Contaminant Testing

This is where the real quality control happens. Look for "Pass" marks on:

• Heavy metals
  
  

• Pesticides
  
  

• Microbials
  
  

• Residual solvents
  
  

If your COA doesn’t test for contaminants—especially in concentrates or infused pre-rolls—it's a red flag.

6. Lab Credentials

Check that the lab is:

• ISO/IEC 17025 accredited
  
  

• Independent (not in-house)
  
  

Shady operators might forge or tweak results. Stick with reputable labs and brands that show full-panel results.

Why Reading a COA Matters

Here’s why every smart shopper checks the lab reports:

🔍 Transparency

It separates hype brands from the real deal. If your brand posts flashy strain graphics but hides their COAs? Run.

🧠 Education

Understanding your cannabinoids and terpenes helps you predict effects and dial in your experience.

🛡️ Safety

Mold, pesticides, and solvents can ruin your lungs—not just your buzz.

📜 Legal Protection

With hemp-derived THCA in a legal gray area in some states, having proof of compliance (COA showing <0.3% Δ9-THC) could save you legal headaches.

Where to Find the COA

Brands that take compliance seriously don’t hide this info. At Alive & Well, every product has:

• A scannable QR code on the jar
  
  

• A direct link on the product page
  
  

• And a centralized Lab Reports page
  
  

We keep it simple, transparent, and easy to verify.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Smoke Blind

THCA flower is only getting more popular—but so is the misinformation. If you care about quality, effects, and staying legal, the COA is your best friend.

Don’t let flashy marketing fool you. Read the lab. Know your flower. Choose brands that put transparency first.

Need help reading your COA? Hit us up at Alive & Well—our team can walk you through your report and help match you with the right strain.