FirstSource Laboratory Solutions LLP. (Analytical Services) is the leading laboratory providing the services in the field of authentication of species and barcoding. Our qualified and experienced scientists by using the high end sophisticated instrumentation to perform the specialized task.

DNA barcoding is a taxonomic method that uses a short genetic marker sequence in an organism’s DNA to identify it as belonging to a particular species.  DNA barcodes vary among individuals of the same species, but only to a very minor degree. If the DNA barcode region is effective, the minor variation within species will be much smaller than the differences among species. The procedure for authentication and barcoding may include: Tissue Sampling, Tissue Lysis and DNA Extraction, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) – COI Amplification, PCR Product Check, PCR Product Cleanup, Cycle Sequencing Reaction, Sequencing Reaction Cleanup, and Post Sequencing Analysis.

A) DNA barcoding for herbs and herbal products

Herbal dietary ingredients, whether they are whole herbs, ground herbs, herb extracts, or herbal products used in the manufacture of dietary supplements are required by FDA cGMP regulations to have their identity verified by one appropriate test or examination. This must be done by the manufacturer prior to processing/ manufacture of the product.

Further, herbal products available to consumers in the marketplace may be contaminated or substituted with alternative plant species and fillers that are not listed on the labels. According to the World Health Organization, the adulteration of herbal products is a threat to consumer safety. Our research aimed to investigate herbal product integrity and authenticity with the goal of protecting consumers from health risks associated with product substitution and contamination.

B) Authentication of meat

In recent years, interest in meat authenticity has increased. Many consumers are concerned about the meat they eat and accurate labelling is important to inform consumer choice for religious and trade reasons.

FSLS uses the DNA based method for identify and authenticate the species of the meat origin.  This include the contamination of pork or bovine origin of the meat in the given product.

C) Authentication of seafood;

Due to the increase in international trade in seafood and seafood products, authentication has become a necessity. FSLS uses the DNA profile of the species for its authentication.