A CoA is a quality contract between supplier and buyer. Reading it properly – specifications, methods, results and limits – turns a document attachment into an actual QC tool.
Key Highlights
- Verify: product identity, batch number, test date, specification limits
- Key tests: appearance, identity (GC/IR), purity, solvent residue, microbiology
- Compare results against YOUR acceptance criteria, not just supplier specs
Anatomy of a CoA
| Section | What to Check |
| Header | Product name, code, batch number matches shipment |
| Specifications | Agreed acceptance criteria per parameter |
| Results | Actual measured values per batch |
| Methods | Test method references (internal, ISO, AOAC) |
| Verdict | Pass/fail statement and analyst sign-off |
Building CoA-Based Incoming Inspection
- Define acceptance criteria per SKU (may exceed supplier specs)
- Verify batch-level match between CoA and delivered goods
- Trend results over time – drift signals process changes
- Retain CoA with retained sample per lot
- Audit supplier methods annually for critical parameters
matai CoAs accompany every shipment with batch-specific results, giving buyers verifiable quality records for their own systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tests should a flavor CoA include?
Minimum: appearance, identity confirmation (GC or IR), density/refractive index, and where applicable solvent residue and microbiology.
Should buyer specs exceed supplier specs?
For critical parameters, yes – define your own acceptance criteria rather than defaulting to supplier specifications.
Next step: Review a matai CoA sample via contact us.