Third-Party Testing
Definition
Third-party testing means a CBD product was analyzed by an independent, accredited lab — not by the manufacturer themselves.
Reputable CBD brands send every batch to an external lab for analysis. The lab tests for cannabinoid potency, residual solvents, heavy metals, pesticides, mycotoxins, and microbials, then issues a Certificate of Analysis (COA).
Look for labs accredited under ISO 17025 — the international quality standard for testing laboratories. The COA should list the lab's name, address, and accreditation number.
Related terms
- COA (Certificate of Analysis)A COA is a document from an accredited third-party lab certifying what is — and isn't — in a CBD product.
- ISO 17025ISO 17025 is the international quality standard for testing and calibration laboratories. CBD COAs should come from labs accredited under this standard.
- cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice)cGMP is an FDA-enforced manufacturing standard that ensures products are consistently produced and controlled to quality standards.
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