Frequently Asked Questions

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General Questions

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• Q: What services does your company provide?

• A: Lumicore Genomics specializes in DNA-based verification and analysis services, supporting applications across food authenticity, fiber verification, supplements, environmental monitoring, and more. Additionally, we offer research support for next-generation sequencing (NGS) projects and expert consultation services tailored to client needs.

 

• Q: How does DNA-based verification work?

• A: Our services use advanced DNA extraction and sequencing technology to analyze samples. This process utilizes whole genome sequencing (WGS) and also identifies unique genetic markers to identify and/or verify the authenticity, quality, or origin of a product, material, or organism.

 

• Q: Who are your typical customers?

• A: Our clients range from small business owners and independent researchers to large multinational companies. We also support academia, government organizations, and industries seeking research services in genomics and NGS.

 

• Q: Can I submit my own samples?

• A: Yes! We provide sample collection kits with easy instructions for a variety of applications. Once your sample is ready, simply return it to us using the provided shipping materials.

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Food and Beverage Verification

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• Q: How can your services benefit my food or beverage business?

• A: We offer DNA-based testing to confirm ingredient authenticity, verify product origins, detect potential adulteration, and ensure compliance with quality and labeling standards. This can help build customer trust and support premium product positioning.

 

• Q: Can you test specialty products like coffee or honey?

• A: Absolutely! We can verify the geographic origin and authenticity of products like coffee, honey, tea, and other food and beverage items with complex sourcing needs.

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Textiles and Fibers

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• Q: What types of textile verification do you offer?

• A: Our DNA testing can verify the authenticity and origin of natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk, ensuring compliance with sourcing claims and detecting any potential fiber adulteration.

 

• Q: How can textile businesses benefit from DNA verification?

• A: By proving the authenticity and traceability of your materials, you can bolster your brand’s sustainability claims, meet consumer expectations, and differentiate yourself in a competitive market.

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Research Support Services

 

• Q: What types of next-generation sequencing services do you provide?

• A: We support a variety of sequencing projects, including whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, ChIP sequencing, custom amplicon targets, and more. Our services are designed for researchers in academia, government, and industry.

 

• Q: Can you help with data analysis?

• A: Yes, we offer bioinformatics support to ensure your sequencing data is thoroughly analyzed and presented in a meaningful way.

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Environmental and Farming Applications

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• Q: How can your services help with environmental monitoring?

• A: We provide DNA-based testing to assess water quality, monitor biodiversity, and detect microbial contamination in various environments.

 

• Q: Can you analyze samples from my farm?

• A: Yes, we can test soil, water, or plant tissue for microbial health, disease presence, or other DNA-based diagnostics to improve agricultural practices.

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Timber Verification

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• Q: What is DNA-based timber verification?

• A: DNA-based timber verification uses genetic analysis to confirm the species and geographic origin of wood and wood-derived products, ensuring compliance with regulations.

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• Q: Who benefits from timber verification?

• A: Timber verification is valuable for furniture and instrument manufacturers, wood suppliers, regulatory bodies, and environmental organizations seeking to verify wood legality, origin, and species authenticity.

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• Q: What types of wood products can be tested?

• A: DNA-based timber verification can analyze raw wood, finished products like furniture, flooring, veneers, and even paper products, depending on DNA preservation.​

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Supplements and Nutraceuticals

 

• Q: Why is DNA testing important for supplements?

• A: DNA-based testing verifies the authenticity and purity of botanical ingredients, ensuring that products meet regulatory standards and are free from adulterants.

 

• Q: What types of products can be tested?

• A: Our testing supports capsules, powders, tablets, teas, tinctures, and other supplement forms containing plant-based or mixed ingredients.

 

• Q: Can DNA testing detect contaminants or allergens?

• A: Yes, DNA testing can identify potential contaminants, allergens, or misidentified ingredients, providing an added layer of safety and compliance for supplement manufacturers.

 

• Q: How does DNA testing support regulatory compliance?

• A: DNA-based verification ensures that your products meet labeling claims.

 

DNA-based Verification in Other Sample Types

 

• Q: What are “other sample types” for DNA testing?

• A: Other sample types refer to a wide range of materials beyond standard applications, such as cosmetics and historical artifacts.

 

• Q: What can DNA analysis reveal about beauty products?

• A: DNA testing can authenticate natural ingredients and detect contaminants in products like essential oils, lipsticks, and creams, ensuring quality and safety for consumers.

 

• Q: Can you analyze historical artifacts or old paper?

• A: Yes, DNA analysis can identify the origins of organic materials in books, manuscripts, or other artifacts, offering insights into geographic origins, age, and preservation needs.

 

• Q: What is the process for submitting unique samples?

• A: We provide tailored sampling kits and guidelines for your specific needs. Once samples are returned, we conduct DNA extraction and analysis to generate customized reports.

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Pricing and Logistics

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• Q: How much do your services cost?

• A: Pricing varies based on the type of service and the sample being analyzed. We offer tiered pricing options to accommodate small businesses, researchers, and larger enterprises. A detailed pricing structure is coming soon.

 

• Q: How long does it take to get results?

• A: Turnaround time depends on the service requested but typically ranges from 3-5 weeks after we receive your samples. Expedited options may be available for an additional fee.

 

• Q: Can you ship sample kits internationally?

• A: Yes, we can ship sample kits globally, although certain countries may have restrictions on specific sample types. Please contact us to discuss your needs.

 

• Q: What happens if my sample is too degraded?

• A: In cases of highly degraded samples, we will communicate with you about potential options for recovery or alternative testing approaches.

 

• Q: How do I get started?

• A: Simply contact us via our website or email to discuss your needs, and we’ll guide you through the process of ordering a sample kit and submitting your sample for analysis.