FAQ – Frequently asked questions

Haelixa revolutionises supply chain traceability with Swiss DNA marking technology. The solution ensures complete transparency from raw materials to finished products. Haelixa helps brands comply with regulations, validate product claims, prevent scandals, and maintain brand trust.   

Haelixa uses physical traceability with embedded DNA markers to track products and materials throughout the supply chain. This ensures reliable data fixed within the product itself. It allows to identify single mines, farms, lots, and supply chain steps, and can even differentiate recycled from conventional and non-recycled materials. No complex database is required, and testing can be done with a portable device, making it both affordable and practical. Additionally, Haelixa offers as many distinct markers as needed for highly reliable, forensic-level identification, setting it apart from other technologies. 

Haelixa is a global company based in Zürich, Switzerland. Building on the expertise of the prestigious Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, our Swiss company has become a globally recognized leader in supply chain transparency. Read more about our journey here.

Ethical sourcing has become an essential aspect of fashion production as the need to meet regulatory requirements increases. Due to the complexity of the fashion industry’s supply chain system, traceability is a valuable asset in managing issues and responding quickly. Material traceability allows brands to track product data from raw materials to finished products, not only to ensure they are sustainably sourced and ethically produced, but also to ensure that they get what they have paid for, and products have not been substituted. As a result, fashion and apparel brands can build trust with their suppliers, prevent fraud and differentiate themselves in the marketplace. In addition, brands can use traceability solutions as a strategic way to build consumer trust by providing customers and stakeholders with detailed information about the origin and journey of products.   

By partnering with leaders like Textile Genesis and TrustTrace, and many more partners across the supply chain Haelixa’s forensic DNA verification is integrated with secure digital tracking systems. This hybrid approach prevents fraud, strengthens circularity, and enables seamless compliance with regulatory requirements.   

Our solution provides forensic proof of origin at every step of the supply chain, ensuring brands can demonstrate compliance with laws such as the EU’s Due Diligence Regulation, the German Supply Chain Act, and the US Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act.

Yes, our DNA-based markers are safe. They are engineered to be non-toxic, vegan, and biodegradable, making them environmentally friendly and safe for ecosystems. It is FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) in the United States, which means they are safe for consumption and do not affect skin, materials, or other items they may come in contact with. They are OEKO-TEX ECO-PASSPORT certified, which means they have been tested and analysed against strict criteria for low environmental impact.

Haelixa’s reliable verification process uses quantitative PCR testing to confirm project-specific DNA markers with a clear forensic result. Samples are analyzed in certified labs following Haelixa’s detailed guidelines. The fast, non-destructive process delivers results within five business days, providing a Certificate of Analysis for regulatory compliance and complete supply chain transparency, ensuring brands can confidently authenticate materials.

Haelixa is the only solution embedding forensic DNA markers made from Swiss mountain herbs directly into materials. These markers are invisible, safe, eco-friendly, resilient through processing, and compliant with GOTS and OEKO-TEX®. Unlike digital-only systems, they provide tamper-proof, material-level proof of origin and can even distinguish between recycled and non-recycled fibres.

The DNA is embedded in a protective capsule, dramatically improving DNA stability and providing unprecedented resilience. It is compatible with chemical treatment of both natural and synthetic textiles (e.g. washing, bleaching, dyeing, etc), metals, or gemstones. Gold or silver melting and surface layer removal are the only industrial treatments that the markers do not survive.

The DNA marker arrives at the customer in a concentrated liquid formulation. The formulation is then diluted, and most commonly, spraying is used to mark the materials.

A lack of universal standards, inconsistent data requests, and supplier concerns over data sharing create complexity. Manual and digital systems are vulnerable to error and fraud, leaving brands exposed. Regulations now demand verifiable proof, which is why embedded solutions like Haelixa’s DNA markers are becoming essential to close the ‘rigour gap.’

Our implementation process follows four key steps:

1. Scope Definition

2. Supply Chain Onboarding

3. Marking & Data Collection

4. Verification & Reporting

Throughout each stage, our project managers and technical team provide continuous support, including tailored training materials, live training sessions, and additional support calls. We offer ongoing assistance via email, WhatsApp, or WeChat for quick clarifications, and on-site support when needed to ensure a smooth and successful implementation. Our goal is to ensure a seamless implementation with all necessary guidance and resources. 

By investing in Haelixa’s DNA marker technology, companies can gain a competitive advantage by ensuring regulatory compliance, protect brand reputation, and mitigating supply chain risks. The costs for non-compliance, such as fines, recalls or reputational damage, can cost a company far more money than implementing a robust traceability system. Companies that invest in supply chain transparency not only meet current expectations and upcoming regulations, but also lay the foundation for a sustainable and responsible future.

The cost of non-compliance or fraud is far greater than the investment in forensic verification. Premium fibers like organic cotton and cashmere face persistent fraud, with reports that up to half of certified fibers sold in Europe are fake. Haelixa provides risk mitigation, protecting both brand reputation and financial stability.

At Haelixa, we trace and authenticate many preferred fibers and materials, including textiles, next-gen materials, gemstones, and precious minerals. Explore our success stories to see how we successfully apply our technology across these materials.

To initiate your project, please contact us via the contact form on our website. Our team will assist you in exploring our technology, discussing your project requirements, and guiding you through the implementation process.