How moderators verify lab evidence
Understand the scientific workflow behind ingredient investigations so you know what to expect after filing a report.
Verification phases
1. Intake & screening
We collect your photos, receipts, and regulator links, then confirm the sample or report is eligible for lab review.
2. Chain of custody
Samples are sealed with QR tamper tags and logged in our custody ledger before shipment to partner labs.
3. Lab analysis
ISO/IEC 17025 labs run chromatography and spectrometry panels matched to the ingredient risk profile.
Typical timeline
48 hours
Moderators acknowledge submissions, confirm documentation, and schedule courier pickup if a physical sample is needed.
5-7 business days
Labs perform testing and upload signed Certificates of Analysis with raw data attachments.
Under 24 hours after results
Trust stewards update the product verdict, notify reporters, and publish a public-facing changelog entry.
Safeguards
How we keep results unbiased
Dual verification
Two moderators review every lab result and compare it against the original claim before changing the verdict.
Conflict checks
We screen for financial ties. Team members with prior relationships to a brand are recused from the case.
Transparent outcomes
Once resolved, we post anonymized summaries so the community learns why a verdict moved up or down.
FAQ
Lab workflow basics
Can I send my own lab results?›
Yes. Upload PDFs with lab letterhead and method details. We still attempt to replicate critical findings before updating scores.
Who pays for testing?›
Zeta covers testing triggered by community safety concerns. Brands commissioning proactive tests can submit through partners@zeta.app.
Do you share samples externally?›
No. Samples are destroyed after testing unless regulators request preservation. We never resell or return opened products.
Need to escalate a lab case?
Trust scientists answer within 6 business hours
Email labs@zeta.app with your report ID, sample photos, and any third-party documents. We can coordinate live calls with chemists for urgent issues.