Palm-sized lab could detect food-borne diseases
![](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/7nUWG4gHyan8i9otGfFs5g--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTM2MDtoPTMwMQ--/https://s.yimg.com/uu/api/res/1.2/VoI9VfpUFHAG6WhDFyT6EA--~B/aD0xNjM7dz0xOTU7YXBwaWQ9eXRhY2h5b24-/https://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2008/07/7-2-08-salmonella.jpg)
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]