Why Lab Results Matter

In Canada's legal cannabis market, every product must be tested by a licensed laboratory before it reaches the shelf. These tests verify potency, detect contaminants, and ensure the product is safe for consumption. Understanding how to read these results helps you make informed choices and compare products accurately.

Finding Lab Results

Lab results (also called Certificates of Analysis or COAs) are typically available:

• On the product packaging via QR code
• On the producer's website
• By request from the retailer

Cannabinoid Content

This is what most people look at first—and for good reason.

THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

• THC: The active form that produces psychoactive effects
• THCA: The raw, non-psychoactive form found in fresh cannabis. Converts to THC when heated
• Total THC: THCA × 0.877 + THC. This accounts for the weight lost when THCA converts to THC

What the numbers mean:

• 10-15% THC: Mild, good for beginners
• 15-20% THC: Moderate, suitable for occasional users
• 20-25% THC: Strong, for experienced consumers
• 25%+ THC: Very potent, approach with caution

CBD (Cannabidiol)

CBD doesn't produce a high but offers its own benefits and can moderate THC's intensity.

• High CBD, low THC: Minimal psychoactive effects
• Balanced (1:1): Moderate effects, often described as more manageable
• High THC, low CBD: Full psychoactive experience

Minor Cannabinoids

Some lab reports include:

• CBN: Mildly psychoactive, associated with sedation
• CBG: Non-psychoactive, being studied for various properties
• THCV: May provide energetic, shorter-lasting effects

Terpene Profile

Not all lab reports include terpenes, but when they do, this information is gold.

Common Terpenes to Look For:

• Myrcene: Earthy, relaxing effects
• Limonene: Citrus, uplifting effects
• Pinene: Pine, alertness and clarity
• Linalool: Floral, calming effects
• Caryophyllene: Spicy, may help with stress

Total terpene content above 2% generally indicates a more aromatic and flavourful product.

Safety Testing

This section confirms the product is free from harmful substances.

Microbial Contaminants

Tests for bacteria, mold, and yeast. Results should show "Pass" or "ND" (Not Detected) for:

• E. coli
• Salmonella
• Aspergillus (mold)
• Total yeast and mold counts

Pesticides

Legal cannabis must be free of pesticide residues. The report should list tested pesticides with "ND" or below acceptable limits.

Heavy Metals

Cannabis can absorb heavy metals from soil. Tests check for:

• Lead
• Arsenic
• Mercury
• Cadmium

Residual Solvents

Primarily relevant for concentrates and extracts. Ensures extraction solvents (butane, propane, ethanol) are below safe thresholds.

Package Date vs Test Date

Pay attention to when the product was tested and packaged:

• Fresher is generally better for flower (terpenes degrade over time)
• Cannabinoid content remains stable longer than terpenes
• Properly stored products maintain quality for 6-12 months

Making Sense of It All

Here's a quick decision framework:

1. Check Total THC to gauge potency
2. Look at the THC:CBD ratio to predict the type of experience
3. Review terpenes (if available) to anticipate flavour and effects
4. Verify safety tests passed for peace of mind
5. Note the package date for freshness

Questions? We're Here to Help

Lab results can feel overwhelming at first, but they're a powerful tool for finding products you'll love. Our budtenders at Smokey's are always happy to walk you through the numbers and help you find exactly what you're looking for.