In winter, the seasonal fruits are citrus fruits. This plant group is composed of many botanical species (https://www.cirad.fr/actualites/toutes-les-actualites/communiques-de-presse/2018/l-evolution-des-agrumes-revisitee).
Currently, their consumption is increasing because of their virtues and benefits on the human health (https://ccj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13065-015-0145-9). However, there are many frauds and adulterations in citrus products. Consumers are increasingly responsive to their products composition. They are looking for authentic, good quality and natural products. To guarantee this quality, fields of cosmetics, nutraceutics, agri-food and flagrances are increasingly concerned about authenticity and traceability of the different plant species they use, particularly citrus fruits.
In this context, DNA Gensee has developed two molecular biology methods, “barcoding” and “metabarcoding”. They respectively make possible the authentication of citrus fruit species in raw materials and citrus products (fruit juice, cosmetic cream, etc.). Both methods are based on the search for DNA signatures of various citrus fruits that have been botanically authenticated beforehand. More information on these methods HERE.
In this project, DNA Gensee has identified two molecular markers (specific genomic regions). To obtain a reliable database and thus provide its customers with quality results, DNA Gensee has worked in collaboration with experts in the world of citrus fruits (producers and botanical gardens).
With this study, DNA Gensee has established essential genetic references to ensure that there is no adulteration in raw materials. These techniques are a mean of regular supplies quality control, particularly in cosmetics or flagrances where the raw materials are of high added value. This study also offers the possibility for different sectors using citrus fruits to prove the traceability of raw materials during the manufacture of products and thus to “certify” them.
Thus, DNA Gensee meets the requirements of traceability, security and durability to provide a new solution to prove visibility and transparency on supply chains and the manufacture of products.