How do I read a bacteriostatic water Certificate of Analysis?
A Certificate of Analysis (COA) is useful for buying when you can connect its sample to the product and lot being offered. Read the identifier first, then the test, measured result, units and acceptance criterion. A pass applies to the reported test on the identified sample.
Walk through an actual BBWU example
The October 6, 2026 report listed on BBWU’s COA page identifies a 10 mL sample, lot H1001A and lab ID V260930-4 001. It reports a pH of 5.27 against a stated range of 4.0–7.0. That tells you what was measured and how the result compares with the specified range. It does not establish that a different size or later shipment has the same result.
What if the lot on the report differs from the lot being sold?
Request the report for the shipping lot or ask the seller to explain which documentation is available. Avoid recording an unrelated report as evidence for the order.
Before you order
- Match the lot on the quote or label to the report; keep the report date and lab identifier with your purchasing record.
- Read exactly which tests appear. Benzyl alcohol content, pH and endotoxins are different measurements.
- If your lab requires a sterility report, ask for that specific documentation. An endotoxin result is not a sterility test.