Securing plant sourcing

Securing plant sourcing is an analytical and scientific approach aimed at guaranteeing the authenticity, purity and traceability of raw materials of plant origin .
botanical, chromatographic and genetic methods to confirm the species, geographical origin and conformity of the plant used.

This analysis has become essential in the agri-food, nutraceutical, cosmetic and phytopharmaceutical , where the risks of fraud, substitution or adulteration are high.
It allows manufacturers to secure their supply chains , ensure regulatory compliance and strengthen consumer confidence.

Analytical methods and techniques used

Plant authenticity verification combines several complementary approaches:

• Genetic analysis (DNA sequencing / NGS – Next Generation Sequencing) :
  Identification of the botanical species from DNA barcoding (marker genes such as rbcL , matK , ITS2 ). This technique makes it possible to detect substitutions, contaminations or mixtures of species, even in transformed matrices.
• Chromatography (HPLC, LC-MS) :
  Chemical profiling of the characteristic compounds of a plant (flavonoids, alkaloids, polyphenols, terpenes). Comparison with reference profiles allows purity to be confirmed or adulterations to be detected.
• Spectroscopy (NIR, IR, UV-Vis) :
  Rapid identification of specific spectral signatures for powders, extracts or essential oils.
• Morphological and macroscopic control :
  Observation of plant organs (leaves, roots, flowers, seeds) according to official botanical criteria (European Pharmacopoeia, ISO).

These approaches are combined to obtain robust multi-criteria authentication , ensuring the reliability of sourcing and the conformity of plant raw materials.

For additional analyses, discover:

• taxonomic study for the classification of plant species,
• the search for constituents of animal origin to guarantee 100% plant-based sourcing,
• DNA authenticity analysis to confirm genetic identity,
• and metabolomic profile analysis to study the overall chemical composition of the extracts.

Industrial applications and challenges

Securing plant sourcing applies to many industrial contexts:

• Nutraceuticals and food supplements : validation of the botanical origin of plant-based extracts, powders and capsules (ginseng, turmeric, rhodiola, etc.).
• Natural cosmetics : control of the identity of active plant ingredients (aloe vera, chamomile, lavender, etc.) and detection of fraudulent substitutions.
• Animal nutrition : verification of the plant origin of raw materials in feed or additive formulations.
• Food industry : authentication of plant ingredients used in processed products (tea, spices, oils, flavorings).
• Phytotherapy and herbalism : compliance with the Pharmacopoeia and securing collection and processing channels.

These analyses help prevent health and regulatory risks , promote sustainable and traceable sectors , and ensure transparency for consumers .

Analytical interest and complementarity

Securing plant sourcing is part of a global approach to controlling authenticity and quality :

• Phytochemical marker assay (HPLC) to verify chemical composition,
• Authenticity analysis of natural products to detect counterfeits,
• Search for contaminants (pesticides, metals) to ensure compliance,
• Stability study and accelerated aging to monitor quality during storage.

All of these analyses contribute to complete and reliable traceability of plant supply chains.

YesWeLab Services

YesWeLab relies on a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited , specialized in botanical authenticity and traceability of natural raw materials .
Our experts select the most suitable analytical protocols according to the matrix (raw plant, powder, extract, oil) and the expected level of proof .

Thanks to the YesWeLab digital platform , you can order, track and centralize your analyses online, while benefiting from personalized scientific support.
Since 2020, YesWeLab has been helping cosmetics, nutraceuticals and food manufacturers secure their supplies and promote their quality and ethical commitments .

For any specific requests or quotes, contact our scientific team today.