A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is like a report card for your cannabis product. It tells you what’s in the product and whether it passed safety tests. Every legal cannabis product sold in New York must have a COA, which you can usually find by scanning the QR code on the product label. Understanding a COA helps you stay safe, informed, and get the effects you’re looking for.

New York State requires cannabis products to go through lab testing to help keep people safe. This testing makes sure that the products sold at licensed dispensaries meet safety standards. It also gives buyers important details about what’s in the product.

Lab tests check for:

• THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids
• Germs like bacteria and mold
• Harmful metals (like lead or mercury)
• Pesticides (chemicals used to kill bugs)
• Solvents left over from extraction
• Moisture levels (water activity)
• Dirt, hair, or other unwanted materials
• Other possible contaminants

Although this post will help anyone anywhere read a COA for marijuana-type C. sativa, we are focusing on New York State.

Header Information

This section is usually at the top of the Certificate of Analysis (COA) and helps you verify the product’s identity and history.

Look for these details:

• Lab Name & Address: Shows which certified lab did the testing. Labs must be licensed by the state.
• Organization Name & License Number: This tells you the business that made the cannabis product and their official New York State license number.
• Product Name: The name of the product, such as a specific strain or brand.
• Sample Name: Describes the cannabis product being tested.
• Sample Type: Tells you the final form of the product (like flower, pre-roll, lozenge, edible, etc.).
• Lot Number or Unique Identifier: A special code that allows the state to trace the full history of the product—from where it was grown to where it was sold. This is also used to recall products if there’s a problem.
• Batch/Sample ID: A specific code that identifies the exact sample tested in the lab.
• Collection Date: The day the lab collected the sample from the producer.
• Received Date: The day the lab received the product for testing.
• Reported Date: The day the final results were shared with the producer.
• Report Status: Tells you whether the testing is finished or still in progress.

These details make sure the lab results match the product you’re buying and help track the product for safety and quality control.

Cannabinoid Profile

This part of the COA tells you how much of each cannabinoid is in your product. These cannabinoids, as we discussed in a previous post, are compounds made by the cannabis plant, and may affect how the product works in your body. Some common ones include:

• THC:This is the chemical that causes a “high.”
• CBD:This does not get you high and is often used for calming effects.
• Other Cannabinoids: These may include CBG, CBN, and CBC.
  • THCA and CBDA are the “acidic” forms of THC and CBD, again as discussed in a previous post.
  • When cannabis is heated (like when smoked or vaped), these acidic forms change into active forms (THC and CBD) through a process called decarboxylation which we’ve mentioned before (link).

In New York State, the results will usually look like this:

• Flower and vapes show cannabinoid levels in percentages (%).
• Edibles show the amount in milligrams (mg) per serving and per package.

Some COAs also include ratios, such as 1:1 THC:CBD, which help you understand the balance between different effects (for example, relaxing vs. energizing).

REMEMBER:

• The Total THC is calculated using this formula:
  Total THC = (0.877 × THCA) + THC
  Why? Because THCA loses weight when it’s heated, as it releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) and turns into THC. That number, 0.877, is used to adjust for that change and we discussed that in a previous post.
• How cannabinoids are tested matters too:
  • Gas Chromatography (GC) uses heat, which turns acidic forms (like THCA and CBDA) into their neutral forms. This means GC only shows THC and CBD, not their original acidic forms. So, if you see in your COA only these neutral numbers it means that either the lab that performed the test added the acidic and neutral forms together already or that the lab only uses a gas chromatography equipment which is unlikely. As we mentioned in a previous post, GC is mostly used to test for terpenes which are volatile.
  • High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) does not use heat, so it can measure both acidic and neutral forms. Because of this, HPLC is the most common method used for cannabis testing, and it gives a more complete picture of what’s in the product.

If your COA only shows the neutral forms like THC or CBD, it could mean one of two things: either the lab has already combined the acidic and neutral forms into one number through the formula from above which is usually labeled as Total THCor Total CBD, or the lab used gas chromatography, a method that only detects the neutral forms. However, most labs use liquid chromatography, which can show both forms, so it’s uncommon for gas chromatography to be used for cannabinoid testing.

Terpene Profile (if available)

Terpenes are compounds that give cannabis its smell and may also affect how it makes you feel. Common terpenes include:

• Myrcene: Earthy or musky smell.
• Limonene: Citrus smell.
• Pinene: Pine scent.
• Linalool: Floral scent.

Not all labs include terpenes, but if they do, it’s a bonus for understanding your product’s aroma and possible effects.

Contaminant Testing

This part is all about safety. Labs check for:

• Pesticides: Chemicals used in farming, should not be present in high amounts.
• Heavy Metals: Things like lead, mercury, or arsenic that can be toxic.
• Microbial Impurities: Bacteria, mold, or yeast that can make you sick.
• Residual Solvents: Used in making extracts, should be below safe limits.
• Foreign Materials: Anything that shouldn’t be there, like hair, plastic, etc.

Each result should be marked:

• “Pass” = safe to use.
• “Fail” = should NOT be sold.

In New York, all legal products MUST pass these tests before being sold.

Pass vs Fail: At the top of most COAs, there’s an “Overall Status.” A “Pass” means the product meets safety standards. A “Fail” means it may be unsafe to use.

NOTE: Not all labs test for every category. If the COA says “Not Tested” for something like residual solvents, it’s a good idea to ask why—especially if the product is a concentrate, since solvents are often used during extraction.

Moisture Content and Water Activity

These tell you if the cannabis was dried and stored properly.

• Water Activity (Aw): Should be below 0.65 to prevent mold.
• Moisture %: Should usually be between 6–13%.

LOQ and LOD

You’ll often see values like “<LOQ” or “<LOD.” Here’s what they mean:

• LOQ: Limit of Quantification – the smallest amount the lab can measure with accuracy.
• LOD: Limit of Detection – the smallest amount the lab can detect at all.
• “<LOQ” means there’s so little of the substance, it couldn’t be measured.

Batch, Lab, and QR Code

• Check that the lab license number is listed.
• Look for a QR code or web link to verify the results.
• Batch and product names should match your packaging.

Importance of Testing

Testing helps protect your health and makes sure the cannabis product is what it says it is. In legal markets, all products must be tested and properly labeled so you know what you’re getting.

Final Tips for Reading a COA

• Always match the COA to the product label: check name, batch, and THC/CBD values.
• Look for state-certified labs and third-party testing.
• Use the QR code on your product to find the real COA.
• If anything looks off, ask the dispensary or contact the brand.
• Always read the COA before using a cannabis product.
• Check that test results match what’s on the label.
• Ask questions if something seems off and dispensaries should help explain.
• Look for third-party testing rather than for in-house lab results.

By understanding how to read a COA, you become a more confident and informed cannabis consumer. Whether you’re using cannabis for wellness, recreation, or medicine, the COA is your best tool for finding cannabis products that are safe to consume, accurately and honestly labeled, and thoroughly tested for strength, purity, and harmful contaminants. COAs support transparency and help build trust between consumers, producers, and regulators, contributing to a safer and more reliable cannabis industry.

The NYS Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) has a very comprehensive guideline on how to understand a COA: https://cannabis.ny.gov/system/files/documents/2023/04/ocm_howtoreadcoa_final.pdf

Understanding the Labor Peace Agreement:

A Labor Peace Agreement (LPA) is essentially a contract that exists between an employer and a labor union. Its primary purpose is to ensure that the employer remains impartial during union organizing efforts and refrains from interfering with union activities. In return, the union commits to refraining from actions like picketing, work stoppages, or boycotts. Under the MRTA, anyone applying for a cannabis industry license in New York, regardless of the size of the operation, must have a fully executed LPA in place at the time of application and maintain it as a condition of licensure.

The Role of Labor Unions:

Labor unions are organized groups of workers who join forces to collectively address workplace conditions and negotiate with their employers. These unions champion the interests of employees when it comes to discussions on wages, working hours, benefits, and other critical aspects of employment. The negotiation process between unions and employers, known as collective bargaining, establishes the terms and conditions of employment.

Dispelling Misconceptions:

Let’s clarify a couple of misconceptions surrounding LPAs. Firstly, having an LPA in place does not automatically lead to unionization or impose a collective bargaining agreement. Union organizing must still occur, and a majority of workers must democratically choose union representation before collective bargaining negotiations can begin. Secondly, LPAs do not dictate hiring standards or requirements, allowing companies to retain discretion in determining their hiring criteria.

Distinguishing LPAs from Collective Bargaining Agreements:

LPAs have a more narrow focus compared to Collective Bargaining Agreements (CBAs). While LPAs solely address the rights of parties concerning union organizing, CBAs cover a broader spectrum of terms and conditions of employment, encompassing wages, benefits, working hours, and more.

Securing a Labor Peace Agreement:

To secure an LPA, it’s essential to engage with a labor union actively operating in New York State.

Importance of Compliance:

Compliance with the LPA requirement is paramount for obtaining and maintaining a cannabis industry license under MRTA. Failure to implement and uphold an LPA can result in non-renewal or suspension/termination of your entity’s license.

To ensure compliance with the Labor Peace Agreement requirement under MRTA, it’s imperative to have a deep understanding of the obligations, advantages, and misconceptions associated with LPAs. Our specially tailored legal explainer will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate this vital aspect of the cannabis industry. By securing an LPA with a labor union, you play a vital role in fostering a harmonious work environment and safeguarding the rights and well-being of your employees. Don’t miss the chance to stay well-informed and compliant—download our legal explainer on the Labor Peace Agreement under MRTA today. Your New York cannabis journey deserves to be built on a solid foundation of understanding.

Think of trichomes like little factories on the outside of cannabis plants. They’re so small that you might need a magnifying glass to see them, but they’re incredibly important. Trichomes do two main things: they protect the plant from pests and the strong sun, and they store the special stuff that gives cannabis its effects and flavors.

Imagine a hidden treasure chest filled with oils that contain everything consumers are looking for, all of the things that make cannabis so special. This chest is filled with compounds like, terpenes, flavonoids, resins, and esters – all the things that make cannabis unique. Cannabinoids like THC (the one that makes you feel “high”) and CBD (known for its therapeutic effects) are made in the trichomes as well. At the same time, they act as the plant’s natural defense system. They make a sticky resin that keeps away plant-eating animals, shields the plant from the sun’s harmful rays, and fights off harmful microorganisms.

Trichomes also create the different smells and tastes in various cannabis strains. They do this by producing aromatic compounds called terpenes. These terpenes not only give each strain its unique smell and taste but also work together with cannabinoids to enhance their effects. This teamwork is known as the “entourage effect.”

A comprehensive comprehension of trichomes is pivotal to unraveling the essence of cannabis. Before concluding your exploration, we invite you to explore our Tools & Resources section, where you can download the free educational poster, delving even deeper into the world of trichomes.

Carbon dioxide, a familiar gas, transforms into a “supercritical” state under specific heat and pressure, resembling a dense fog like dry ice. Supercritical CO2 acts as an effective solvent for extracting compounds, including those from cannabis. Trichomes, resin-filled glands on the cannabis plant’s surface, store cannabinoids and terpenes. Extraction aims to separate these from the plant. The process starts with finely grinding buds and enclosing them in a special pouch to let trichomes escape while keeping the plant material.

In an extractor, liquid CO2 enters via a pressurized pump, becoming supercritical due to pressure and temperature. This fog envelops the trichomes and compounds.

Within the high-pressure chamber, resin particles dissolve in supercritical CO2, forming a solution that exits through a pressure relief valve. CO2 turns liquid, bringing particles closer.

The solution moves to a cyclone separator, where fluid dynamics of supercritical CO2 make particles rotate cyclonically. CO2 turns gaseous, ending the process.

In the separator, denser resin particles with cannabinoids and terpenes settle, while lighter CO2 gas returns for reuse. This eco-friendly recycling aspect is a key feature of supercritical CO2 extraction.

The journey from cannabis flowers to resin-rich extracts underpins diverse commercial products. Extracts are integrated into tailored formulations. In premium edibles, resins dissolve into mediums like oil or butter, infusing chocolates and gummies for consistent potency and true flavors. For therapeutic tinctures, cannabinoids and terpenes blend with carrier oils for precise dosing and relief. In beauty and wellness, extracts harmonize with ingredients for luxurious topicals like creams and balms. Our animated educational video guides you through this intricate process, offering deep insights into premium cannabis extracts. Embark on the journey of supercritical CO2 extraction, where science, innovation, and sustainability converge.

The Canvas of Cannabinoids

Imagine the cannabis plant as a landscape image of beautiful colors – these colors are the cannabinoids. Each cannabinoid contributes a unique hue to the overall picture, representing distinct properties and interactions with our body’s endocannabinoid system.

Cannabinoids are predominantly found in the trichomes, those tiny, crystal-like structures that coat the surface of cannabis flowers, leaves, and stems. These trichomes are nature’s intricate chemical factories, producing cannabinoids in response to various environmental cues, stressors, and predators.

CBD: The Versatile Precursor

At the heart of cannabinoid exploration lies CBD, or cannabidiol. CBD acts as a versatile precursor from which other cannabinoids can be derived. Through careful manipulation and extraction processes, researchers and manufacturers can harness CBD’s potential to produce a wide range of cannabinoids, each with its own set of characteristics.

For instance, CBD can be transformed into CBG (cannabigerol), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that has garnered interest for its potential therapeutic applications. This process involves skillfully manipulating CBD’s molecular structure to yield CBG, showcasing the intricate interplay of chemistry and nature.

Expanding Possibilities: The Derivatives

The journey from CBD to other cannabinoids involves a nuanced dance of science and technology. By harnessing the power of chemical reactions and precise extraction methods, researchers can transform CBD into a spectrum of compounds such as CBN (cannabinol), CBC (cannabichromene), and even THC (tetrahydrocannabinol).

For instance, as CBD interacts with specific enzymes and processes, it can give rise to CBN, a cannabinoid that forms as THC oxidizes over time. CBC, on the other hand, emerges through distinct biochemical pathways, contributing its own potential benefits to the cannabis concoction.

Unlocking the Potential: Exploration Awaits

To delve deeper into the intricate world of cannabinoids, we encourage you to download the free poster provided by CWI Tools and Resources. This resource is a valuable starting point for anyone seeking to understand the origins, derivatives, and potential of these remarkable compounds.

In conclusion, cannabinoids are the threads that weave the fabric of cannabis’s complexity. Through CBD’s versatility and scientific innovation, we can unravel the tapestry of compounds that hold promise for both wellness and medical applications. So, let’s continue our exploration, armed with knowledge and curiosity, as we navigate the landscape of cannabinoids together.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical or legal advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional and abide by NYS laws and regulations.

1. Who is covered under the FLFLPA? Discover who falls under the protective umbrella of the FLFLPA and why this legislation represents a significant milestone for farm workers in New York State.
2. Unveiling farm laborers’ rights: Explore the powerful rights granted to farm laborers under the FLFLPA, including their ability to form and join unions, engage in collective bargaining, and participate in concerted activities for mutual aid and protection.
3. A delicate balance: Employer obligations and prohibited actions: Uncover the responsibilities that employers must adhere to and the actions they are strictly forbidden from engaging in under the FLFLPA, ensuring a fair and respectful working environment.
4. Empowering farm laborers’ voices: Learn about the FLFLPA’s provisions that allow farm laborers to speak directly with their employers about working conditions without fear of coercion or interference.
5. Union certification process: Discover the voluntary process that farm laborers undertake to form a union under the FLFLPA, promoting collective representation and giving workers a stronger voice in shaping their working conditions.
6. Protecting rights: Reporting violations: Find out how farm laborers can seek recourse if they believe their rights have been violated under the FLFLPA and the role of the New York State Public Employment Relations Board (PERB) in investigating complaints.

To access the full resource and gain a comprehensive understanding of the New York Farm Laborer Fair Labor Practices Act, click here.

By downloading our complete resource, you’ll unlock a wealth of information that delves deeper into the FLFLPA, exploring its nuances and the transformative impact it has on farm laborers in New York State.

Disclaimer: This article serves as a brief introduction to the New York Farm Laborer Fair Labor Practices Act and does not substitute for legal advice. For specific inquiries and guidance, please consult a qualified attorney or labor rights organization.

Highlights of the FAQ Guide:

• Understand the concept of expungement and how it restores individuals to their pre-conviction status.
• Explore the positive effects of expungement, including the removal of convictions from public access and their exclusion from job, housing, and loan applications.
• Discover who is eligible for expungement, specifically for possessing or selling marijuana within certain limits.
• Learn about the automatic nature of expungement for qualifying convictions, making it hassle-free and cost-free.
• Uncover the process of notification and record updates conducted by the Office of Court Administration (OCA) and the Department of Criminal Justice Services.
• Find out how to verify if your case has been expunged through certification of disposition or obtaining a complete criminal record.

Take the First Step:

Embrace the opportunity for a fresh start by downloading our FAQ guide on Marijuana Criminal Record Expungement. Discover the eligibility criteria, benefits of expungement, and the steps involved in the process. Unleash the potential to leave past convictions behind and open doors to a brighter future. Don’t let the weight of the past hold you back—take the first step towards a clean slate today.

(Note: This summary article only provides a glimpse of the information contained in the comprehensive FAQ guide. For a complete understanding, download the guide for detailed insights and guidance.)

Unemployment Insurance:

Unemployment Insurance is a federally mandated program that provides temporary income to support workers who have lost their jobs due to qualifying events such as layoffs or company shutdowns. Employers in New York State are required to enroll in Unemployment Insurance if they pay wages of $300 or more in a calendar quarter. The program is administered by the NYS Department of Labor, and you can register for Unemployment Insurance through their website.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance:

Workers’ Compensation Insurance is essential for protecting employees who suffer injuries or illnesses on the job. It provides income replacement, medical care, and rehabilitation costs to help injured workers return to gainful employment. As an employer, you are required to purchase Workers’ Compensation Insurance for your employees. The New York State Insurance Fund (NYSIF) offers a special program that provides the required insurance to cannabis employers.

Disability Benefits Insurance:

Disability Benefits Insurance provides temporary benefits payments to workers disabled by off-the-job injuries or illnesses, including those arising from pregnancy. This insurance protects both employees and employers by providing financial support during the recovery period. Employers can purchase Disability Benefits Insurance from the NYSIF, and funding can be done through employee payroll deductions or by providing the insurance at no cost to employees.

Paid Family Leave Insurance:

Paid Family Leave Insurance is mandatory in New York State and provides partial salary payments to employees during leaves of absence to bond with a new child, care for a loved one with a serious health condition, or support family members on active military duty. Employers collect money from employee wages through payroll deductions to fund this insurance coverage. The NYSIF offers the required insurance for cannabis employers.

Importance of Compliance and Insurance:

Complying with the insurance requirements for your cannabis retail business is crucial for protecting your employees and your business itself. These insurance policies provide financial support to employees in times of need, cover medical expenses, and ensure that skilled employees can recover and return to work. Furthermore, compliance with these insurance obligations helps safeguard your business from the risk of expensive lawsuits that can arise from workplace injuries.

As a cannabis retail business owner, it is your responsibility to understand and fulfill the insurance requirements for your employees. Unemployment Insurance, Workers’ Compensation Insurance, Disability Benefits Insurance, and Paid Family Leave Insurance are vital components of a comprehensive insurance plan that ensures the well-being of your employees and protects your business. Download this legal explainer on Cannabis Retail Insurance for Employees to gain valuable insights into these insurance policies and ensure compliance with New York State regulations. By prioritizing the safety and security of your employees, you contribute to the long-term success and growth of your cannabis retail business.

Exploring the Different Verticals: To fully comprehend the breadth of career opportunities in the cannabis industry, it is important to understand the distinct verticals that contribute to its production and distribution. Here are some of the key verticals in the cannabis industry:

1. Cultivation: The cultivation vertical involves the growth of cannabis plants. This includes roles such as growers, horticulturists, and cultivation technicians who oversee the planting, harvesting, and maintenance of cannabis crops. A deep understanding of plant biology, cultivation techniques, and regulatory compliance are essential for success in this field.
2. Processing: The processing vertical involves transforming harvested cannabis plants into various products, such as oils, concentrates, edibles, and topicals. Professionals working in this vertical include extraction technicians, lab scientists, and product development specialists. Skills in extraction methods, laboratory procedures, and quality control are highly sought after in this rapidly evolving field.
3. Compliance: The compliance vertical focuses on ensuring adherence to the ever-evolving regulations and laws governing the cannabis industry. Compliance officers, regulatory analysts, and quality assurance specialists play a critical role in maintaining legal and operational compliance. Strong attention to detail, knowledge of local regulations, and the ability to navigate complex compliance frameworks are essential for professionals in this vertical.
4. Delivery: The delivery vertical involves the safe and efficient transportation of cannabis products from producers to retailers or directly to consumers. Delivery drivers, logistics coordinators, and fleet managers contribute to the smooth functioning of this aspect of the industry. Excellent organizational skills, familiarity with transportation regulations, and a customer-centric approach are crucial in this field.
5. Retail: The retail vertical encompasses dispensaries and stores where cannabis products are sold to consumers. Retail associates, budtenders, and store managers provide guidance and support to customers, ensuring compliance with age restrictions and offering product knowledge. Strong interpersonal skills, knowledge of cannabis strains and products, and a passion for customer service are essential in this customer-facing role.

The cannabis industry has transformed into a thriving sector, offering a multitude of exciting career prospects across various verticals. Whether you aspire to work with in cultivation, be involved in processing, ensure compliance, facilitate delivery, or engage in retail operations, the cannabis industry caters to diverse skill sets and interests. Don’t miss out on the chance to be a part of the dynamic and rapidly expanding cannabis industry—download the career guide today and unlock the door to exciting new opportunities.