BOTANICAL INGREDIENT BUYER GUIDE
How to Review a Botanical Extract COA
A practical B2B checklist for botanical identity, plant part, assay, analytical method, physical tests, contaminants, microbiology, batch data and document validity.
COA Field Review Table
| Item | What it tells the buyer | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Identity | Botanical name, plant part and material type | Confusing unlike grades |
| Assay | Analyte, result, limit, unit and method | Comparing results from different methods |
| Physical | Appearance, particle size, loss on drying and ash | Processing or formulation mismatch |
| Safety | Heavy metals and microbiology where applicable | Destination-market nonconformity |
| Traceability | Batch number and relevant dates | Using an unrelated representative document |
Evidence Boundary
This guide explains purchasing review principles. It does not certify a product or replace the specification and current offered-batch COA for the grade being purchased.
Start with Product Identity
Confirm the botanical or material identity, plant part and physical form. A raw powder, ratio extract and standardised extract should not be treated as equivalent purchasing specifications.
Match the Assay to Its Method
Record the analyte, target, unit and method together. HPLC, UV, TLC and GC answer different analytical questions; a numerical result without its method can be misleading.
Review Batch and Quality Data
Check batch number, manufacture date, appearance, particle size, loss on drying, ash, heavy metals and microbiological limits where applicable. Ask for the current offered-batch COA before final approval.
Compare Commercial Requirements
Confirm sample availability, MOQ, lead time, packing, destination market and required declarations. Qualification is complete only when the technical and commercial offer refer to the same grade.
Questions to Send the Supplier
- What exact botanical source and plant part are offered?
- What assay target and method apply?
- Is the COA representative or shipment-specific?
- Which physical and contaminant limits are controlled?
- Which documents are available for the destination market?