For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption. Not evaluated by the FDA.

What Is a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is a document issued by an accredited laboratory that certifies the identity, purity, and quality of a compound. For research peptides, a COA confirms that the peptide matches its stated identity, meets purity specifications (typically ≥98%), and is free from specified contaminants. The COA is the primary quality assurance document in research peptide procurement.

What a Research Peptide COA Contains

A comprehensive COA for a research peptide should include:

• Compound identity — confirmed via mass spectrometry (MS)
• Purity percentage — measured via HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography), typically reported as ≥98%
• Molecular weight confirmation — verified against theoretical MW
• Batch/lot number — for traceability
• Test date — when the analysis was performed
• Laboratory name and accreditation — ideally ISO 17025 accredited
• Results for each test method — HPLC chromatogram, MS spectrum

Why COA Verification Matters in Research

Purity directly affects research validity. A peptide with 85% purity contains 15% unknown impurities that can confound experimental results. HPLC-verified ≥98% purity ensures that observed effects in research models are attributable to the target compound rather than contaminants.

Third-Party vs. In-House COAs

Third-party COAs are issued by independent laboratories with no financial relationship to the supplier — these are the gold standard. In-house COAs are generated by the supplier's own laboratory and carry less independent verification weight. Palmetto Peptides provides batch-specific COAs from ISO-accredited third-party laboratories for every compound.

How to Read a Peptide COA

• Check that the compound name and sequence match what you ordered
• Verify purity is ≥98% by HPLC
• Confirm the molecular weight matches the theoretical value (±0.5 Da is acceptable)
• Check the batch number matches your vial label
• Verify the testing laboratory is named and accredited

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does ≥98% purity mean?
A: It means at least 98% of the material in the vial is the target peptide. The remaining ≤2% may include trace impurities, residual solvents, or synthesis byproducts within acceptable limits.

Q: What is HPLC testing?
A: High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) is an analytical technique that separates compounds in a mixture and measures the proportion of each. It is the industry standard for peptide purity testing.

Q: Can I request a COA for my order?
A: Yes. Palmetto Peptides provides batch-specific COAs for all compounds. Contact support@palmettopeps.com with your order number.

Browse COA-verified research compounds: All Research Peptides | BPC-157 | Retatrutide

For laboratory research use only. Not for human consumption. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.