NOW (Bloomingdale, IL) advanced its botanical identity testing program through a first-of-its-kind partnership with LeafWorks (Sebastopol, CA), a botanical genomics company specializing in research and commercial DNA testing services for natural products.

NOW said it is integrating next-generation DNA sequencing into its identity testing workflow, expanding its ability to verify botanical ingredients across complex formulations while maintaining the rigorous standards for its quality program.

“We are always looking for ways to strengthen our quality systems and ensure the integrity of our products,” said Maria Mendres, microbiology manager at NOW. “Incorporating next-generation DNA sequencing for genomic-level ID adds another valuable tool to our testing program, enhancing our ability to verify botanical identity. The number of species we can test for simultaneously is unique to DNA and LeafWorks’ platform, making it a good fit for NOW with over 2,000 ingredients.”

NOW implemented a new next-generated sequencing laboratory at its facility in Sparks, NV to support company-wide testing efforts. The company applies its sequencing output to LeafWorks’ DNA analysis platform for accurate species validation at scale.

This model allows partners to access high-powered genomic analysis without building the underlying bioinformatics infrastructure in-house. Using LeafWorks’ curated reference database and analytical systems, NOW shares its digital sequence data for analysis, receiving detailed Certificates of Analysis (COAs) that support consistent, high-confidence identity verification across a wide range of products.

DNA testing has been used in the natural products industry for more than a decade, but historical approaches, such as those based on universal DNA barcoding and earlier methods, were never built for commercial application. They relied on uncurated databases, markers and techniques that have often struggled to deliver consistent, species-level identification in processed products, according to NOW.

“What’s exciting about this model is that it lowers the barrier to adopting advanced DNA testing,” said Kerin Law, co-founder and chief scientific officer of LeafWorks. “Companies can generate sequencing data in-house and plug directly into our analysis platform without needing to build complex bioinformatics systems themselves. This unique combination of accessibility and rigor is an entirely new model of testing to move the industry forward. We are thrilled to be partnering with NOW, true industry leaders in natural products, in this brand-new testing model.”

For more information, visit www.nowfoods.com or www.leafworks.com.