If you’ve ever scanned a QR code on a cannabis product and felt overwhelmed by numbers, percentages, and abbreviations, you’re not alone. That document you’re looking at is called a COA, and understanding it can completely change how you shop for cannabis.

This guide breaks down how to read a cannabis COA in California, what actually matters, what’s commonly misunderstood, and how to use lab results to shop smarter and more confidently.

What Is a COA?

A COA (Certificate of Analysis) is a lab report required for all legal cannabis products in California. It shows:

• Potency (THC, THCa, CBD, etc.)
• Safety testing results
• Terpene profiles in some cases
• Compliance information

Where to Find the COA

Most cannabis products include a QR code on the packaging. Scanning it will take you to the product’s COA, which may show:

• A summary version on the label
• A full lab report online

The QR code is the most reliable way to view the complete test results for a specific batch.

Understanding the Top of the COA (Batch Basics)

At the top of a COA, you’ll usually see:

• Product name
• Batch or lot number
• Test date
• Licensed testing lab
• License numbers

This information confirms the product was tested legally and helps identify the exact batch being sold.

Potency Breakdown: THC, THCa, and Total THC

This is the most confusing part of a COA, and the most important.

THC (Delta-9 THC)

This is the psychoactive compound most people associate with cannabis. In California regulations, THC (delta-9 THC) is the value referenced when determining package limits for concentrates.

THCa

THCa is the acidic form of THC found in raw cannabis. It is not intoxicating until heated, at which point it converts into THC.

Solventless concentrates like rosin often test high in THCa.

Total THC

Total THC is a calculated value that estimates how much THC could be produced after THCa is converted through heat. It’s useful for understanding potential potency — but it is not the legal limit referenced in California regulations.

This distinction is critical and explains why some products appear “high THC” while remaining compliant.

Why Total THC Can Look So High

Many customers are surprised when they see very high Total THC numbers, especially on rosin products.

That’s because:

• THCa makes up a large portion of the cannabinoid profile
• Heating converts THCa into THC
• Total THC includes that conversion in its calculation

High Total THC does not automatically mean a product is medical-only or illegal for adult use.

Minor Cannabinoids: More Than Just THC

Beyond THC and THCa, COAs often list other cannabinoids such as:

• CBN
• CBG
• CBC
• THCV

These compounds influence the overall experience and help explain why two products with similar THC levels can feel very different.

Understanding cannabinoids adds context beyond just chasing a percentage.

Terpenes: What Shapes the Experience

Terpenes are aromatic compounds responsible for flavor, aroma, and much of how a product feels.

A COA may list terpene percentages (not mandatory) and individual terpene names. Even small differences here can significantly affect the experience.

This is one reason solventless products are often favored by flavor-focused consumers.

Safety Testing: The Non-Negotiables

Every legal cannabis product in California must pass testing for:

• Pesticides
• Heavy metals
• Residual solvents
• Microbial contaminants

These results are clearly marked as Pass or Fail on the COA. If a product passes, it meets California’s safety standards and is approved for sale.

How to Use a COA When Shopping

Instead of focusing only on THC percentage, use a COA to:

• Compare terpene profiles
• Understand why effects differ by batch
• Learn which cannabinoids you respond to best
• Ask better questions when shopping

A COA is a tool, not a scorecard.

Common COA Myths

• “Higher THC is always better.”

Not necessarily. Terpenes and cannabinoids matter.

• “Total THC is the legal limit.”

It isn’t. California regulations reference THC (delta-9 THC).

• “Rosin is exempt from rules.”

It isn’t. It’s still a concentrate and must meet all regulations.

Why Understanding COAs Matters

COAs exist for transparency. Learning how to read them empowers you to make informed choices, understand why products differ, and shop with confidence.

If a COA ever feels confusing, Tropicanna’s team is always happy to walk through it with you, that’s what we’re here for.