The eight checks
| Check | What we do | Label when complete |
|---|---|---|
| Laboratory documents | Read the batch COA: laboratory, accreditation, batch, date, tests, results, units, detection limits | Batch COA reviewed |
| Identity | Match the batch number on a purchased jar with the report | Identity verified |
| Authenticity | Combine identity, accredited batch testing and documented origin | Authenticity verified |
| Origin and processing | Record the stated region and the named extraction or processing business | Origin documented |
| Label and claims | Check label content and marketing claims against UK rules[1][2] | Recorded in the review |
| Purchase and delivery | Buy as an ordinary customer and record what happens | Purchase and fulfilment verified |
| Price | Cost per gram and per serving; see price method | Recorded in the review |
| Customer feedback | Structured feedback; see consumer testing | Reported with its method |
How a laboratory report is checked
- Laboratory identityNamed, with contact details, and accreditation stated for the tests reported.[3]
- Batch matchThe report’s batch matches the product reviewed.
- PanelMetals and microbiology as a minimum; mycotoxins, pesticides and PAHs add confidence.
- ResultsNumbers with units and detection limits, set against GB limits where they exist.[4]
See reading a COA line by line and red flags in a lab report.
The method in use
The first product reviewed under this method is Nature Elixirs Himalayan Shilajit Resin, where all eight checks are shown with their labels. The same method applies to every brand.
What a review doesn’t cover
Reviews assess documentation, identity, purchasing and value. They don’t assess health effects, which are rated for shilajit generally on evidence by topic. See also what a product review can’t prove.
Sources & further reading
Primary research, regulators and standards bodies are cited first. A source being listed here does not mean it supports every claim made by sellers; it supports the specific statement it is attached to.
- Food Standards Agency. Food supplements: business guidance. food.gov.uk. View source (opens in a new tab) [Regulator guidance]
- Committee of Advertising Practice. UK Code of Non-broadcast Advertising (CAP Code), Section 15: Food, food supplements and associated health or nutritional claims. asa.org.uk. View source (opens in a new tab) [Advertising code]
- ISO/IEC. ISO/IEC 17025:2017 General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories. iso.org, 2017. View source (opens in a new tab) [International standard]
- European Commission (UK version on legislation.gov.uk). Commission Regulation (EC) No 629/2008 amending Regulation (EC) No 1881/2006 setting maximum levels for certain contaminants in foodstuffs. legislation.gov.uk, 2008. View source (opens in a new tab) [UK legislation (retained)]