As the hemp industry expands, an increasing array of hemp products emerges on store shelves across the nation. With each revelation about this remarkable plant, the diversity of available goods expands. Yet, for numerous shoppers, from novices to connoisseurs, the quest for a top-notch product can seem akin to searching for a needle in a haystack.
Fortunately, there are strategies available to aid shoppers in discovering their desired item while reducing the chance of selecting an inferior one. Here are a few approaches shoppers can employ to secure a quality 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
Reading reviews before making a purchase decision can be a smart investment of your time and money. Companies that prioritize honesty and transparency welcome feedback from their customers, offering valuable insights for both the brand and potential buyers.
Much like a certificate of analysis (COA), product reviews can provide a treasure trove of information. Some key points to look out for include:
- 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?
Ensuring top-notch products isn’t enough if customers aren’t equipped to make the most of them. That’s why prioritizing customer education is paramount for any reputable brand.
The strategy for promoting education may differ depending on variables like the target demographic, product range, and business structure. Nonetheless, key avenues for accessing informative and educational resources encompass:
- Social media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
- A blog on the brand’s website
- YouTube videos
- Podcasts
What Contact Information Does the Brand Provide?
Reliable and transparent brands prioritize being accessible to their customers for any questions or concerns. This commitment fosters honesty and builds a strong 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 where you stand on artificial intelligence, it’s undeniable that it’s firmly rooted in our reality and is actively in use. For consumers, the crucial consideration should revolve around the manner in which AI is applied, rather than its mere existence. In the context of marketing hemp-based products, it’s worth exploring the following inquiries:
- 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
Looking for a hemp-based product might seem daunting, especially for seasoned shoppers. But employing the mentioned tools can simplify the task, saving you time, money, and stress. By integrating these quality control methods into your search, you’ll pave the way for a successful purchase.