How to Verify a Supplement's Certificate of Analysis (CoA)

For the discerning consumer, the label is only the first step. To truly verify the safety and purity of a dietary supplement, one must look at the Certificate of Analysis (CoA ). This document is the definitive proof that what is inside the bottle matches what is printed on the label.

1. What is a CoA?

A Certificate of Analysis is a document issued by an accredited third-party laboratory that confirms a specific batch of a product has been tested for potency, purity, and safety. It is the industry standard for quality control, yet it is rarely requested by the average consumer. A manufacturer's willingness to provide a CoA is a primary indicator of their commitment to transparency.

2. Key Metrics to Inspect

When reviewing a CoA, focus on these three critical areas:

• Potency Verification: Does the amount of active ingredient found in the lab match the dosage claimed on the label?
• Microbiological Testing: Is the product free from harmful bacteria like E. coli, Salmonella, and mold?
• Heavy Metal Analysis: Does the product fall below the safety thresholds for Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, and Cadmium?

3. How to Request a CoA

Legitimate companies should have no hesitation in providing a CoA for a specific lot number. If a company refuses to share their lab results or claims they are "proprietary," it is a significant red flag. For a detailed list of manufacturers that maintain high CoA standards and clinical transparency, the verification reports at Revievo.com serve as an essential resource for consumer safety.