Three sections matter: cannabinoid breakdown (THC %, CBD %, CBN, CBG), terpene breakdown (% of each terpene by weight), contaminant testing (pesticides, residual solvents, heavy metals, mold, microbial contaminants — all should pass NY OCM thresholds).
Listed as % by weight. Total THC = THC + (THCA × 0.877). For flower, the “Total THC” number is what most shoppers care about. Pure THC %is misleading because raw flower contains mostly THCA (acid form) until heated.
Listed as % by weight. Total terpenes > 2% = noticeably flavorful + characterful flower. Look for the dominant terpene — it predicts the felt effect better than indica/sativa label. Myrcene > 0.5% = body-relaxing. Limonene > 0.3% = uplifting. Pinene > 0.3% = focus. Linalool = calm. Terpinolene > 0.4% = creative.
NY OCM requires testing for residual solvents (relevant for vapes, concentrates, edibles), pesticides, heavy metals, mold, microbial contaminants. All results should be "PASS" or below detectable limit. If anything fails, the product cannot be sold legally — but checking the COA confirms the chain of custody.