Applied DNA partners with Isotech team on cotton traceability project

Applied DNA is collaborating with Stratum Reservoir (Isotech), a specialist in laboratory staple isotop analysis – a technique used for fingerprinting naturally occurring organic substances such as cotton- to support cotton traceability research.

The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) under which Applied DNA will use Isotech’s isotopic analysis (IA) as a confirmatory test for cotton genotyping, which is the process of using cotton DNA to determine the provenance of cotton fiber and fabric forensically. A definitive agreement between the corporations is expected to follow the MoU.

The MoU was signed after the firms jointly presented preliminary results at an American Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) event, which described a technique and conclusions for successfully determining Egyptian cotton fiber, yarn, and fabric provenance using cotton genomics, with IA’s affirmation.

The addition of IA to Applied DNA’s CertainT platform for textile traceability results in a continuous flow of forensic data across the entire natural fiber-based value chain – from source to finished goods – to ensure compliance with social (avoidance of products made with forced or slave labour) and environmental (sustainable, organic) practises that are in line with regulatory and consumer expectations.

The companies have agreed to assist commercial development prospects for cotton traceability as part of the MoU. To expand the use and usability of IA, they will continue to collect and compile a global library of cotton, yarn, and fabric samples from known sources.

MeiLin Wan, vice president of textile sales at Applied DNA, said that they believe that the application of IA complements their CertainT platform to give a best-in-class, multi-layered solution to supply chain traceability and assurance across the whole natural fiber-based value chain. Once the origin has been confirmed, CertainT provides immutable and forensic assurance from source to shelf. The power of DNA is now augmented with IA.

Steven Pelphrey, director of Stratum Reservoir (Isotech), LLC, said that stable isotope analysis is a powerful technique that they have historically employed in the oil and gas business. They can now apply their established technology and methodologies to the textile industry more broadly thanks to their collaboration with Applied DNA. This adds a layer of geographic provenance to Applied DNA’s CertainT platform while also providing an unrivaled solution to the market.