Why Quality Matters in Hemp Products
As the hemp industry continues to expand, a growing array of hemp products is appearing on store shelves nationwide. With each new discovery about this remarkable plant, the range of available products widens. However, for many consumers, even seasoned ones, finding a high-quality product that meets their needs can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Fortunately, there are strategies shoppers can use to identify what they are looking for while reducing the risk of selecting an inferior product. Here are a few effective methods to help shoppers find quality hemp products:
Does the Product Have a COA?
A certificate of Analysis, or COA for short, is the third party testing results from a certified laboratory. COAs contain important information about hemp-based products, such as;
- THC potency
- Cannabinoids present in the product
- Any contaminants found within the product
- When the product was made and/or tested
- The presence of any pesticides, herbicides, molds, etc. within the product
By law, every hemp product should be tied to a COA. Not only does this serve as a quality control measure, but also verifies the product falls within federal and state guidelines.
Read the Reviews
Reading reviews of a product you’re considering can save you both time and money in the long run. Brands that prioritize honesty and transparency value customer feedback. This feedback, in turn, provides new shoppers with insights into the potential experiences with the product.
Like Certificates of Analysis (COAs), reviews can offer a wealth of information, such as:
- How the individual felt after using a product
- Any side effects an individual felt from a product, whether they be good or bad.
- What an individual liked or disliked about a product.
What Educational Information Does the Brand Provide?
A brand might offer the best products on the market, but if customers don’t know how to use them, they might not enjoy the experience they deserve. Therefore, investing in information and education is crucial for any quality brand.
The methods brands use to promote education can depend on factors such as their audience, products, and business model. However, some of the most common sources of informational and educational content include:
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
- A blog on the brand’s website
- YouTube videos
- Podcasts
What Contact Information Does the Brand Provide?
Trustworthy and transparent brands want to make sure their customers can get in touch with them if they have any questions or concerns. This helps maintain honesty and establishes a connection between the consumer and the brand.
Some of the most popular ways brands provide contact information include;
- Emails
- Phone numbers
- Live Chat
Contact information types can vary from brand to brand, similar to educational content. However, the quality brands want to ensure that their shoppers can contact them easily and quickly.
How do Brands Use AI?
Regardless of your opinion on artificial intelligence, its presence and utilization are undeniable. Shoppers should focus on understanding how AI is being employed rather than questioning its existence. When it comes to the marketing of hemp-based products, consider asking the following questions about AI usage:
- Is AI being used to enhance the consumer experience or is it being used as a quick replacement for quality content?
- Are brands using visual AI images as a replacement for real photos?
- Do any AI images used violate any copyright laws?
Quality brands will be selective about how they use AI. Vice Versa, fly-by-night brands may use it to appear transparent while still falling short.
The Bottom Line
Shopping for hemp-based products can be overwhelming, even for seasoned buyers. However, utilizing the tools mentioned above can simplify the process, saving you time, money, and stress. By applying these quality control methods, you ensure a successful shopping experience for hemp-based products.
