As the hemp industry expands, an increasing array of hemp products is appearing on store shelves across the nation. With each new discovery about this remarkable plant, the variety of available products continues to grow. For many consumers, even the seasoned ones, finding a quality product that meets their needs can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack.
Fortunately, there are methods to help shoppers locate the right products while reducing the risk of choosing a substandard option. Here are several strategies to find a quality hemp product:
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
Taking the time to read reviews on a product you’re considering can save you both time and money in the long run. Brands that prioritize honesty and transparency are keen to hear their customers’ feedback. Consequently, new shoppers gain valuable insights into the experiences of others with the same products.
Like a Certificate of Authenticity (COA), reviews can provide 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 boast top-notch products, yet if customers aren’t familiar with their usage, they might miss out on the full experience they deserve. That’s why allocating resources to provide information and education is vital for any reputable brand.
The methods through which brands facilitate education can differ based on factors like target audience, product range, and business structure. Nevertheless, some typical avenues for offering informative 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?
No matter how you feel about artificial intelligence, it is here to stay and it is being used. What shoppers need to look for is how AI is being used rather than if it is being used. A few questions to consider regarding the use of AI in hemp-based product marketing are;
- 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
Navigating the world of hemp-based products can seem overwhelming, even for seasoned shoppers. Yet, with the aid of tools like those outlined above, you can simplify the process, saving both time and money, while preserving your peace of mind. Employing these quality control techniques during your hemp product hunts lays the groundwork for a successful experience.