Palm-sized lab could detect food-borne diseases

There are literally entire stores devoted to devices that detect drink spiking (okay, maybe not stores), but what about those of us concerned over food-borne pathogens? A crew of European researchers are addressing said worries by "creating one of only two prototype systems in the world that prepare samples and perform DNA tests on bacteria in a portable, easy-to-use and cost-effective chip." Essentially, the EU-funded OptoLabCard project is aiming to concoct a small, disposable laboratory that humans could carry around and use to detect diseases such as campylobacter and salmonella before ingesting contaminated grub. Team members are suggesting that a commercial product could be ready to roll within three years, with prices for each "lab" reaching as low as $0.50. 'Til then, always make your buddy have the first bite.

[Via Physorg]

[teslasnp @ Jul 2nd 2008 10:33AM]

I don't see this as a good thing. I enjoy becoming ill from eating something, means I don't have to go to work...

[bohsocks @ Jul 2nd 2008 11:09AM]

$.50? Can I get it for $.25 if I super size my Big Mac meal?

But yeah I'd rather get sick than carry these around -- not because of the price, but because of public ridicule.... good idea, just not for me.

[natels @ Jul 2nd 2008 11:19AM]

It's also disrespectful to the restaurant. Especially if it is a nicer one. Analogous to putting A1 on a steak.

[bohsocks @ Jul 2nd 2008 11:32AM]

Uh... also... if I even suspect I may need to use a palm-sized lab on the establishment... why shell out 50 cents.... how about the money I spent on the food?

Lame......

[DefPo3t @ Jul 2nd 2008 10:39AM]

my dream of a star trek like medical device is closer !

[BratPAQ @ Jul 2nd 2008 10:51AM]

years from now, they can plant this chip beside the tongue or teeth, when the chip detected salmonella, it will induce a vomit from the stomach to expel any swallowed contaminated food.

[bohsocks @ Jul 2nd 2008 11:24AM]

Bulimia fans rejoice!

[aardWolf @ Jul 2nd 2008 11:45AM]

"detect diseases such as campylobacter and salmonella before ingesting contaminated grub."

Gotta love that. Who would defect salmonella and then still go on to eat it???

[Chris Kim A @ Jul 2nd 2008 12:27PM]

Uh, someone think to send a couple prototypes down to the FDA folks to check out all them t'maters gettin' the bum rap lately?

[Grant @ Jul 2nd 2008 1:13PM]

i hate you.
please get off my internet.

[momotarosan @ Jul 2nd 2008 1:54PM]

give one to each restaurant inspector at the health department

[SK @ Jul 2nd 2008 5:49PM]

I knew Palm inc. would come out with a new product this summer!