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Ingredient Quality Checklist

What to verify before you qualify a botanical extract or functional ingredient supplier.

Documentation to request per batch

Use this checklist when qualifying a new ingredient or supplier. Every item below is part of the documentation package we provide to support ingredient qualification, formulation and supplier audits.

  • COA per batch — batch-specific Certificate of Analysis stating the assay result and method.
  • TDS / MSDS — technical and safety data sheets for handling, storage and regulatory files.
  • HPLC or UV assay — marker-compound content verified by a stated, appropriate method.
  • Heavy metals — ICP-MS panel (e.g. lead, arsenic, cadmium, mercury).
  • Microbiology — total plate count, yeast & mould, and pathogen screening.
  • Pesticide residue — where applicable to the botanical and target market.
  • Residual solvents — where applicable to the extraction process.
  • Third-party testing — available on request when your market requires independent verification.

Specification questions to ask

  • What is the marker compound and the assay method used to verify it?
  • Is the stated percentage a minimum specification or a typical value?
  • What are the MOQ, lead time and sample availability for this specification?
  • How is batch-to-batch consistency controlled, and can you see historical COAs?
  • Which quality-system certifications apply to this product?

Next step

Review our Lab & Quality Control, Factory & Manufacturing and Certifications & Patents pages, or request the documents for a specific ingredient. For supplier audits, see Audit Support.