Ally, a new food allergy testing device, is currently under development by Imogen Adams, a product design engineering graduate from Brunel University. This small, pocket-sized device allows users to insert a small test strip to check whether a food contains an allergen. The innovation behind Ally is poised to revolutionize how individuals with food allergies manage their dietary restrictions.
Development and Prototyping
Watch the demonstration video below to see the first prototypes, which have been created using a little Arduino programming and hardware. Recently, Adams was awarded funding by the James Dyson Foundation to continue her work on Ally. The device was also displayed in an exhibit at London’s Design Museum, showcasing its potential to a broader audience.
The initial prototype Adams created can only test a meal for traces of lactose. However, future models are expected to have the capacity to test for a wider range of allergens, including nuts, wheat, seafood, and meat. This expansion will make Ally an even more versatile tool for those with multiple food allergies.
Comparative Advantage and Future Prospects
Compared to current food allergen tests on the market, Ally could be an affordable alternative. For instance, another device, Nima, costs £150 for the device and £4.50 for each test result. In contrast, Ally is projected to cost around £30, with the test strips selling for just a few cents. Additionally, the companion app makes the strips an unnecessary purchase, further reducing the cost for users.
The affordability and ease of use of Ally could make it accessible to a broader audience, including families with children who have food allergies, travelers, and even restaurants looking to ensure the safety of their meals. The device’s compact size means it can easily fit into a pocket or purse, making it convenient for on-the-go testing.
Moreover, the potential for Ally to test for multiple allergens in a single device sets it apart from other products on the market. This feature could be particularly beneficial for individuals who suffer from more than one food allergy, providing them with a comprehensive solution in a single, user-friendly device.
Right now, the prototype Adams created can only test a meal for traces of lactose. Future models will have the capacity to test for nuts, wheat, seafood, and meat allergies. Compared to current food allergen tests on the market, Ally could be an affordable alternative. Another device, Nima, costs £150 for the device and £4.50 for each test result. Ally would cost someone around £30 with the test strips selling for just a few cents—plus the companion app makes the strips an unnecessary purchase.
The development of Ally is a significant step forward in the field of food allergy testing. As the device continues to evolve, it holds the promise of making life safer and more convenient for millions of people worldwide who live with food allergies. The support from the James Dyson Foundation and the exposure at the Design Museum are testaments to the potential impact of this innovative device.
Follow the links below for more details.
Source: Adafruit
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
