Applied DNA Secures Subcontract for Cotton Traceability Project
Applied DNA Sciences, a leader in PCR-based DNA technologies, has been awarded a subcontract from LRQA following a competitive tender process. The contract supports a pilot isotopic testing program aimed at improving cotton traceability in Pakistan. This initiative is part of a broader effort under the Global Trace Protocol project, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor, to reduce child and forced labor in global supply chains.
Applied DNA Sciences’ Subcontract Details
The subcontract awarded to Applied DNA involves collaboration with Isotech, a Stratum Reservoir company, to employ the CertainT® platform. This platform leverages forensic, multi-proof-point evidence to verify the source and authenticity of materials as they progress through global supply chains. Applied DNA will conduct isotopic testing and analysis at key points within the cotton textile value chain in Pakistan, working with farms, gins, yarn spinners, and manufacturing units identified by the project.
Global Trace Protocol Project
The Global Trace Protocol project, managed by LRQA, is an initiative designed to enhance traceability in supply chains to combat child and forced labor. The project engages with global brands, experts in traceability, and worker organizations within Pakistan’s cotton sector to develop and implement a pilot trace tool. The goal is to improve its future application and create publicly available resources that are commodity-agnostic, enabling enhanced due diligence.
Importance of Cotton Traceability
New import regulations and legislation now demand more documentation to verify cotton origin and prevent sourcing from high-risk areas. Therefore, the Global Trace Protocol project seeks to tackle these issues by creating advanced traceability technology tools. Jeff Wheeler, Director of the project at LRQA, highlighted the need for transparency and integrity in global textile value chains. This includes the collaboration with Applied DNA.
Role of CertainT® Platform
The CertainT® platform, a cornerstone of Applied DNA’s technology, provides a comprehensive solution for secure supply chain traceability. It utilizes isotope testing in conjunction with DNA tagging and genomic testing to authenticate the origin of cotton. Recent partnerships, including a collaboration with Indus Apparel, have demonstrated the platform’s robustness, showcasing its scalability and accessibility in enabling compliance with U.S. import regulations.
Isotopic Testing and Analysis
The CertainT® platform will use isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) to conduct isotopic testing on samples from different stages of the cotton textile value chain. Consequently, this testing will establish a baseline for isotope analysis in the pilot project. It will align with the broader goals of the Global Trace Protocol. The data obtained will help in verifying the authenticity of cotton and ensuring that it meets regulatory requirements.
Future Implications
Applied DNA’s role in the Global Trace Protocol project highlights its dedication to advancing traceability technologies. These technologies can be applied across various industries. If the pilot project in Pakistan succeeds, isotopic testing for cotton traceability could see wider global adoption. As regulatory scrutiny on supply chains increases, tools like CertainT® will be crucial in ensuring compliance and maintaining trust in global markets.
The subcontract award from LRQA is a major milestone for Applied DNA Sciences. It positions the company to develop advanced traceability tools. These tools will enhance transparency and integrity in global supply chains through the Global Trace Protocol project. The use of the CertainT® platform for isotopic testing in Pakistan’s cotton sector is only the start. It has broader implications for the future of supply chain verification worldwide.
Chart by Trading View
