Question 1

What is a COA for peptides?

Accepted Answer

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a lab-issued document that verifies a peptide's identity, purity, and safety. It typically includes HPLC purity percentage, mass spectrometry (MS) confirmation of molecular weight, endotoxin levels, sterility testing, and the testing lab's name and accreditation.

Question 2

What peptide purity percentage should I look for on a COA?

Accepted Answer

For research peptides, look for 98% or higher purity by HPLC. Anything below 95% is considered low-grade. The COA should explicitly state the purity method (HPLC at 220 nm is standard) and show the observed molecular weight matches the expected value by mass spectrometry.

Question 3

How do I verify if a peptide COA is real?

Accepted Answer

Check that the COA lists a real accredited lab (Janoshik, Alkemist, or similar), a specific batch/lot number matching the product label, a test date within the past 12 months, and the testing method for each result. Red flags include missing lab name, generic template, no batch number, or purity below 95%.

Question 4

Which peptide vendors provide third-party COAs?

Accepted Answer

Most reputable research-chemical vendors publish COAs per batch, typically tested by Janoshik Analytical or similar independent labs. BodyHackGuide's vendor directory flags which vendors publish third-party COAs for each batch.

Question 5

What does Janoshik testing mean?

Accepted Answer

Janoshik Analytical is a Slovakia-based independent analytical lab widely used by research-peptide vendors for third-party HPLC and mass spec testing. A 'Janoshik tested' COA means the batch was verified by this external lab rather than the vendor's in-house lab.

Question 6

Can a vendor fake a COA?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Common fakes use a generic template with no batch number, copy another lab's branding, or show unrealistic 100% purity. Always cross-reference the batch number on the product with the COA, verify the lab exists, and use an analyzer tool to spot inconsistencies.

Research Use Only

COA Reader

What to Look for in a COA