Standards

Quality Assurance & CoA Policy

Testing standards, CoA methodology, and the quality dispute process.

1. Testing Standards

Each batch of product sold by GACP is tested against a panel appropriate to the product category by an accredited third-party laboratory. Testing panels are selected based on product category and risk profile and may include:

  • Identity verification (botanical identity confirmation, species authentication);
  • Potency / assay analysis (active compound quantification, standardisation verification);
  • Heavy metals screening (lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury);
  • Microbial testing (total aerobic count, yeast & mold, E. coli, Salmonella, coliforms);
  • Pesticide residue screening;
  • Residual solvent analysis (where applicable to the extraction method); and
  • Moisture content and water activity.

2. What a CoA Proves

A Certificate of Analysis (CoA) documents the results of laboratory testing for a specific batch at the time of analysis. It confirms that the batch met GACP's release specifications for the tested parameters at the time of testing.

3. What a CoA Does Not Prove

A CoA does not:

  • Guarantee that the product will remain within specification if stored improperly by the Buyer;
  • Constitute a warranty of fitness for any particular application, formulation, or finished product;
  • Certify compliance with all possible regulatory frameworks in all jurisdictions; or
  • Replace the Buyer's obligation to conduct incoming quality control testing appropriate to the Buyer's application.

4. CoA Accessibility

CoAs for current inventory are available for download by registered trade accounts through the CoA Library at gacp.llc. Historical CoAs for previously purchased lots are retained for a minimum of three (3) years from the date of sale and are available upon request.

5. Retain Samples

GACP retains a reference sample from each batch for a minimum of two (2) years from the date of sale, or for one (1) year beyond the stated shelf life of the product, whichever is longer. Retain samples are stored under conditions consistent with the product's specified storage requirements and are available for re-analysis in the event of a quality dispute.

6. Sample Requests

Prospective buyers may request evaluation samples of standard catalogue products. Sample quantities are typically 50g or 100g and are provided at no charge, with shipping costs borne by the requester. Sample requests can be submitted through the website or by contacting info@gacp.llc.

7. Quality Dispute Process

If a Buyer believes a product does not conform to its CoA specifications, the following process applies:

  • The Buyer notifies GACP in writing within the timeframes specified in the Refund & Returns Policy;
  • GACP reviews the claim against the retain sample and original laboratory data;
  • If the initial review does not resolve the dispute, GACP and the Buyer may agree to submit samples to an independent third-party laboratory for re-analysis;
  • The cost of independent re-analysis is borne by the party whose position is not supported by the results; and
  • GACP's remedies for confirmed non-conformance are as specified in the Refund & Returns Policy.

8. Supplier Qualification

GACP evaluates and qualifies its upstream suppliers based on quality capability, documentation practices, regulatory standing, and track record. Supplier qualification does not constitute a guarantee or endorsement of any supplier's operations, but reflects GACP's commitment to sourcing from supply partners that meet appropriate quality standards for the relevant product category.

9. Contact

For questions about quality assurance, CoA documentation, or the dispute process, contact us at info@gacp.llc.