Applied DNA Sciences, a provider of DNA-based supply chain, anti-counterfeiting, genotyping and anti-theft technology, and authentication technologies, has shipped an order for SigNature T DNA to mark 10 million pounds of Acala cotton in the third quarter of 2016.

Acala is a type of Upland cotton that produces the longest staple among the Upland species, making it one of the highest quality Upland cottons in the world, the company reports.

New gin installations

In addition, building upon recent business successes, Applied DNA received orders for two new DNA transfer units that will help support cotton gin expansion into new regions and cotton varieties that will be delivered in the fourth quarter of 2016.

These new gin installations will process Texas and Acala Upland cotton varieties. The initial four gins continuing tagging from the prior season will sustain the SigNature DNA process with Pima and Upland Delta cottons. Additional DNA Transfer Units are under discussion with the company’s customers.

Authenticating Acala cotton

“Authenticating Acala cotton with the SigNature T solution adds to our business momentum,” said Dr James Hayward, Chairman, President and CEO of Applied DNA.

“This development comes at a very important time in the industry. Retailers, product developers, and consumers are asking for more authenticity, especially with the sophistication of forensically-proven sourcing. In addition, with the recent decline of 50% in Egyptian production and the controversies surrounding its quality, Acala cotton is an excellent candidate to replenish the supply. We are honored to be part of the solution.”

 At this time, more than 260 companies have signed The Cotton Pledge Against Forced Labor in the Cotton Sector and the US Department of State is increasing their demands on manufacturers to prove that sourcing of cotton is ethically produced without slave labor. The SigNature T solution currently used for PimaCott  and HomeGrown aims to offersa means for transparency, traceability and trust.

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