Verification of the natural origin of cosmetics through scientific analysis

Analysis of product naturalness: verifying natural origin using carbon-14 and isotopic analysis

Scientifically verify whether your products are of natural or synthetic origin using carbon-14 and isotopic analysis.

CIRAM supports industry players in authenticating their products and formulations, detecting potential substitutions of fossil-based ingredients, and validating their “natural origin” claims in accordance with naturalness standards.

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carbon-14 dating to verify the natural origin of a product

Why verify the natural origin of your products?

As allegations regarding the origin of products become increasingly common across various industries, companies must be able to substantiate the true origin of their ingredients with reliable scientific evidence.

Verifying natural origin helps address several key challenges:

  • Verify marketing and commercial claims ( “100% natural,” “plant-based,” etc.),
  • Comply with the standards of labels and certifications (COSMOS, ISO 16128, Ecocert, Natrue, Ecolabel…),
  • Avoid the risk of substitution with synthetic ingredients,
  • Minimize the risk of fraud, disputes, or greenwashing,
  • Build confidence among consumers, distributors, and regulatory authorities,
  • Differentiate products in increasingly competitive markets.

Naturalness can no longer simply be claimed; it must now be demonstrated through reliable scientific analysis.

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They trust us

Committed cosmetics brands, suppliers of natural ingredients and green chemistry manufacturers trust us to scientifically certify the naturalness of their products.

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CIRAM product origin

Identify the true origin of your products

A naturalness analysis thus makes it possible to determine whether a product, ingredient, or formulation truly comes from natural sources or contains synthetic components. It is particularly well-suited for:

  • Verify the authenticity of essential oils and plant extracts,
  • Detect counterfeit flavors or fragrances,
  • Check the ingredients in so-called " natural " cosmetics,
  • Ensuring the safety of green chemistry formulations,
  • Distinguish between natural materials and synthetic substitutes.

This approach is now essential in sectors where the perception of naturalness is a key differentiator.

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laboratory verification of the authenticity of essential oils

Our methods for verifying the origin of products

At CIRAM, we use a cross-analytical approach to rigorously assess whether a product or ingredient is of natural or synthetic origin:

  • Theradiocarbon dating (carbon-14) is used as a tool to verify the true origin of raw materials and formulations. In particular, it enables the detection of fossil-derived carbon in products claimed to be natural. Substances derived from recent biomass contain carbon-14, whereas synthetic or petrochemical compounds do not. This difference provides a robust scientific basis for identifying substitutions and validating claims of naturalness. Unlike bio-based content analyses, which quantify a material’s composition, this approach aims to authenticate its true origin.

  • In addition, isotopic analysis helps refine the interpretation by identifying the botanical, animal, or synthetic origin of the ingredients and by detecting certain forms of biosynthesis. For example, it makes it possible to distinguish a natural flavor from a biosynthetically produced one.

This combination of analyses ensures a reliable and reproducible assessment that complies with naturalness standards, even for formulated or processed products.

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Steps in a naturalness analysis at CIRAM

At CIRAM, we have structured our analysis process to guarantee reliable, standardized and directly usable results:

01 - Defining your objectives

We work with you to analyze your needs: validation of a "100% natural" claim, compliance with a reference standard, marketing differentiation, etc.

02 - Choosing the right method

We select the most appropriate approach: radiocarbon analysis alone or combined with isotope analysis, depending on the product and standards targeted.

03 - Sampling protocol

You'll receive simple instructions on how to prepare and send your samples in conditions that guarantee their integrity.

04 - Laboratory analysis

Our experts carry out the analysis according to strict, validated protocols, with quality controls at every stage.

05 - Reporting results

You'll receive a detailed report, ready to be incorporated into your communication materials, certification files or tender responses.

Why choose CIRAM for your naturalness analyses?

When you choose CIRAM, you benefit from the expertise of an independent scientific laboratory, specialized in materials analysis and recognized for the reliability of its results. For over 20 years, we have been working with industries faced with the growing challenges of traceability, conformity and product enhancement.

We bring you :

  • Analysis in compliance with label standards (COSMOS, ISO 16128, Ecocert...),
  • Clear, standardized reports that you can use in your regulatory and marketing activities,
  • Results delivered within 10 working days,
  • Personalized support, with an expert dedicated to your project,
  • Total confidentiality, respecting your formulations and strategic data.

In a market where naturalness is a key differentiator, scientific evidence becomes a decisive competitive advantage.

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Are you asking yourself these questions?

Can naturalness be measured on a processed or formulated product?

Yes, our methods apply equally to ingredients and finished products, even complex ones.

Can the results be used for a label like COSMOS or Ecocert?

Yes, our reports comply with the requirements of our standards and are recognized by certification bodies.

Is analysis mandatory to make a "natural" claim?

It is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended to justify your declarations, avoid disputes and reinforce your credibility.

How long does the analysis take?

On average 5 to 10 working days from receipt of sample.

Can you compare two formulations or two suppliers?

Yes, we regularly carry out comparative analyses to help our customers make strategic choices.

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Get all the answers to your questions!

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