Eurofins Botanicals Partners with LeafWorks to Launch First Mushroom DNA Species Identification Tests
October 28, 2024 – Eurofins Botanicals is proud to announce the first-of-its-kind partnership with LeafWorks to launch the industry’s first Mushroom DNA Species Identification Tests. This collaboration brings an innovative solution to the natural products market, offering precise DNA validation for functional mushrooms used in dietary supplements, foods, cosmetics, and more.
Currently, no reliable tests exist for accurately identifying mushroom species, with commonly used methods like ITS barcoding showing high rates of false positives.
“We found companies using universal barcodes like ITS for mushrooms,” said Dr. Kerin Law, Chief Scientific Officer at LeafWorks. “When we saw studies showing these are often inaccurate, we knew we could develop a better solution—so we did.”
The scientific backbone of these new tests lies in LeafWorks’ development of species-specific DNA markers, which accurately identify mushroom species by distinguishing between similar species, common adulterants, and cultivation substrates. Unlike traditional methods that rely on universal DNA barcoding, LeafWorks’ markers are designed specifically for fungi, filling a critical gap in the market. These tests have been extensively validated to ensure accuracy and reliability across different mushroom species and product formulations.
Eurofins’ addition of these innovative DNA tests to its extensive analytical testing portfolio marks a significant advancement in quality assurance for mushroom-based products. Cris Amarillas, Chief Science Officer, commented: “This partnership with LeafWorks aligns perfectly with our commitment to scientific excellence. Together, we are providing manufacturers with the tools they need to ensure transparency, authenticity, and product safety.”
Launching at SupplySide West 2024, the first DNA ID tests will focus on Shiitake and Cordyceps species, with additional mushroom tests being released in 2025. These tests provide reliable identification across different product types, including raw materials and complex blends, and comply with FDA and cGMP regulations, supporting manufacturers in maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
Dr. Eleanor Kuntz, CEO of LeafWorks said, “LeafWorks is thrilled to partner with Eurofins in the launch of our Mushroom Species ID Tests to create, for the first time ever, accurate ingredient testing for mushrooms in the natural product industry. These tests fill a critical gap in the testing needs for natural products.”
About Eurofins – the global leader in bio-analysis
Eurofins is Testing for Life. The Eurofins Scientific S.E. network of independent companies believes that it is a global leader in food, environment, pharmaceutical and cosmetic product testing and in discovery pharmacology, forensics, advanced material sciences and agroscience contract research services. It is also one of the market leaders in certain testing and laboratory services for genomics, and in the support of clinical studies, as well as in biopharma contract development and manufacturing. It also has a rapidly developing presence in highly specialized and molecular clinical diagnostic testing and in-vitro diagnostic products.
Eurofins Scientific S.E. shares are listed on Euronext Paris Stock Exchange.
