Third-Party CBD Testing Explained

Mar 19th 2026

(And How to Read a CBD CoA)

When you’re choosing a CBD product—for yourself, your dog, or your horse—you’re placing trust in what’s on the label.

But not all CBD products are created equal.

At Hempward Farms, we believe you should never have to guess what’s in your product—you should be able to see it clearly. That’s where CBD lab testing and a Certificate of Analysis (CoA) come in.


⭐ What is a CBD Certificate of Analysis (CoA)?

A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) is a third-party lab report that verifies what’s in a CBD product. It confirms cannabinoid levels, THC compliance, and checks for contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and bacteria.


What Is Third-Party CBD Lab Testing?

Third-party CBD lab testing means an independent laboratory evaluates each batch of CBD.

This removes bias and provides verified results you can trust.

At Hempward Farms, every batch is tested this way. You can view our lab results anytime on our COA page.


What Does CBD Lab Testing Check For?

Cannabinoid Potency

  • Confirms CBD levels match the label

  • Shows other cannabinoids (CBG, CBN)

  • Verifies THC ≤ 0.3%


Pesticides

  • Screens for agricultural chemicals

  • Reflects responsible growing practices


Heavy Metals

  • Lead

  • Arsenic

  • Cadmium

  • Mercury


Residual Solvents

  • Butane

  • Propane

  • Ethanol


Microbial Contaminants

  • Mold

  • Yeast

  • Bacteria


Why Colorado Standards Matter

Colorado has some of the most rigorous hemp testing requirements in the U.S., supporting accuracy, transparency, and compliance.


How to Read a CBD CoA

Step 1: Match the Batch Number

Make sure it matches your product.

Step 2: Check Cannabinoids

Look for CBD, total cannabinoids, and THC (≤ 0.3%).
Tip: “ND” = None Detected.

Step 3: Look for PASS

  • Pesticides: PASS

  • Heavy Metals: PASS

  • Microbials: PASS

  • Solvents: PASS

Step 4: Check the Date

Make sure it’s current.


Is CBD Lab Testing Required?

CBD lab testing requirements vary, but reputable brands consistently use third-party testing to verify product quality and transparency.


How Do I Verify a CBD Product Is Safe?

Look for:

  • Third-party lab testing

  • A recent CoA

  • Clear cannabinoid labeling

  • Accessible lab results


What Should a CBD CoA Include?

A complete CoA should show:

  • Cannabinoid profile

  • THC compliance

  • Contaminant screening results

  • Lab name and test date


Why We Share Everything

At Hempward Farms, transparency is part of what we do.

We grow our hemp in Colorado, oversee production, and test every batch through independent labs.

Whether you’re shopping for CBD for horses, CBD for pets, or CBD for people, you deserve clear, reliable information.


Want to See for Yourself?

You can view the full Certificates of Analysis for every product on our COA page.

Or explore our CBD products to find the right fit for your routine.