Genetic identification of natural raw materials (plants, algae, fungi, etc.)

The genetic identification of natural raw materials relies on next-generation sequencing (NGS) and molecular barcoding to determine the exact identity of a plant, fungal, or algal species. This cutting-edge method ensures the biological traceability of ingredients used in the nutraceutical, cosmetic, food, and plant protection sectors , as well as for materials of natural origin .

It is an essential tool for verifying the authenticity of a raw material , detecting fraudulent substitutions and ensuring regulatory compliance of marketed products.

Principles and objectives of DNA testing

The principle is based on the analysis of one or more specific regions of the genome, called DNA barcodes . These genetic sequences, characteristic of each species, allow for rapid and reliable identification through their comparison with international reference databases (NCBI, BOLD, etc.).

The most commonly used markers are:

• ITS (Internal Transcribed Spacer) : for fungi and yeasts;
• rbcL and matK : for higher plants;
• COI : for algae and marine organisms.

The analysis consists of:

• Extract the total DNA from the sample (plant, powder, extract, capsule, etc.);
• Amplify target regions by PCR;
• Sequencing the amplified fragments by NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) or Sanger ;
• Compare the obtained sequences to genetic databases to confirm taxonomic identity.

This approach allows identification down to the species level , or even the genus level, even on transformed matrices.

Industrial applications and areas of use

Genetic identification is applicable to many industrial sectors:

• Nutraceuticals and phytotherapy : verification of the botanical origin of plant extracts, detection of adulteration or undeclared substitutions;
• Natural cosmetics : control of ingredients of plant or algal origin integrated into the formulas;
• Human and animal food : authentication of raw materials, powders, spices, additives or plant ingredients;
• Agri-food : detection of prohibited or undesirable species in finished products;
• Bio-based materials : traceability of polymers and resins of natural origin (algae, plants, fungi).

This method is becoming a benchmark in biological traceability , complementing classic physico-chemical analyses, to guarantee the transparency and compliance of supply chains.

Advantages of DNA sequencing for botanical identification

• High specificity : reliable identification even from transformed, extracted or powdered matrices;
• Versatility : applicable to plants, algae, fungi, microorganisms or complex mixtures;
• Objectivity : result based on universal genetic sequences, independent of culture or processing conditions;
• Fraud prevention : detection of substituted or non-compliant currency;
• Regulatory compliance : meets the requirements of health authorities and the European Pharmacopoeia for the traceability of natural ingredients.

Technical characteristics and reliability of results

NGS or Sanger protocols , ensuring high taxonomic accuracy.
The results include:

• The scientific name of the identified species;
• The percentage of similarity with the reference database;
• The phylogenetic tree or the genetic positioning of the sample;
• A comprehensive report interpreted by an expert in molecular biology.

ISO 17025 accredited partner laboratories , specializing in molecular biology and genetic analyses , guaranteeing the reliability, traceability and reproducibility of the results.

YesWeLab Expertise and Support

YesWeLab supports manufacturers, formulators, and distributors in their biological authentication and traceability . Through a network of expert DNA sequencing , we help you secure your supplies and guarantee the conformity of your raw materials.

Our digital platform allows you to easily submit your samples, track your analyses in real time, and access your results reports online.
Our scientists will guide you toward the method best suited to your matrix (barcoding, targeted sequencing, metagenomics) according to your technical or regulatory constraints.

Further analyses recommended

For complete traceability and enhanced quality control, YesWeLab also recommends:

• Analysis of secondary metabolites by LC-MS/MS
• Determination of total polyphenols
• Total flavonoids assay
• Identification of microbial contaminants by DNA sequencing

These additional services allow us to validate both the biological identity and the chemical quality of your natural raw materials, thus ensuring optimal safety for your finished products.