The problem of the presence of DNA in cosmetic and medicinal products obtained from animals on the CITES list
Authentication study published in Genes (2025)
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The illegal trade in wildlife remains a critical threat to biodiversity, prompting the development of international regulatory frameworks such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). One of the key challenges in enforcement is the detection of CITES-listed species in highly processed consumer goods. METHODS: This study investigates the use of molecular techniques to detect animal DNA in two selected commercially available medicinal products-a balm and a gel-marketed with ingredients suggestive of protected species such as the brown bear (Ursus arctos) and the medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis). RESULTS: Although DNA from these target species was not detected, the analysis revealed the presence of genetic material from the American mink (Neovison vison) and domestic pig (Sus scrofa), indicating the undeclared use of animal-derived substances. While limited in scope, these findings suggest potential ethical and transparency concerns, particularly for consumers adhering to vegetarian, vegan, or religious dietary practices. CONCLUSIONS: The study illustrates the feasibility of applying DNA-based screening methods in complex, degraded matrices and their potential as supportive tools in consumer product assessment. However, broader studies are necessary before drawing general regulatory or conservation conclusions.
Abstract sourced from PubMed (NCBI) for the cited record. See the original publication for the authoritative version.
Summary
Investigates molecular detection of CITES-listed animal DNA (brown bear, medicinal leech) in cosmetics and medicinal products. Reveals undeclared mink and pig DNA — calls for stricter labeling.
Why This Matters for Hirudotherapy
This study used molecular DNA techniques to screen two commercially available medicinal products (a balm and a gel) marketed with ingredients suggestive of CITES-listed species, specifically brown bear (Ursus arctos) and medicinal leech (Hirudo medicinalis). Although DNA from these target species was not detected, genetic material from American mink and domestic pig was identified, raising transparency and ethical concerns about undeclared animal-derived substances in consumer products. The mention of H. medicinalis as a CITES-relevant species connects tangentially to leech conservation and regulatory issues that may interest ASH members. However, the study found no leech DNA in the tested products, involves no hirudotherapy or leech secretome research, and the authors explicitly note the findings are limited in scope, precluding broad regulatory conclusions.
Citation
The problem of the presence of DNA in cosmetic and medicinal products obtained from animals on the CITES list.
Figura A et al. · Genes, 2025
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