How to Request a COA

Every reputable brand has Certificates of Analysis from third-party labs. Most share them if you ask correctly. The ones that refuse are telling you everything you need to know.

Email template

Subject: COA Request - [Product Name] [Lot/Batch if known] Hi, I purchased [Product Name] and would like the Certificate of Analysis for my batch. Could you provide: 1. Full third-party lab report (PDF) 2. Lab name and accreditation number 3. Batch/lot number the report covers If batch-specific reports are unavailable, the most recent COA works. Thank you, [Your Name]

What to ask for

Full PDF from the lab: not a summary or screenshot. Letterhead, analyst signature, accreditation info.

Lab accreditation: ISO 17025 for general testing, cGMP for supplements. Verify independently.

Batch/lot match: COA should match your product's lot number. A 2019 COA does not cover a 2025 bottle.

Relevant panels: heavy metals, microbials, pesticides (botanicals), potency (supplements).

Red flags

No response

Two ignored requests means they either lack COAs or do not want you seeing them. Find another product.

Proprietary / confidential

COAs contain no trade secrets. They show contents and safety thresholds. This excuse is always illegitimate.

In-house testing only

Self-testing has obvious conflicts. Third-party means independent, accredited lab. In-house alone is insufficient.

Old or mismatched lots

COA from two years ago may not reflect current sourcing. Request within last 12 months minimum.