A New Sensor Can Instantly Detect Peanut Traces in Your Food

For those with severe allergies, figuring out which foods are safe can be more difficult than it seems. Peanuts, in particular, pose a serious risk, as even the smallest trace can cause a severe reaction like anaphylaxis within seconds. While avoiding foods that are certified allergen-free is challenging, carrying a stash of safe snacks everywhere isn’t practical. Nima, a portable allergen sensor, is a game-changer for those at risk.

Nima is intended for use at the dinner table, allowing you to test the food before eating. Originally launched in 2017 for individuals with gluten sensitivities, the sensor has since expanded its capabilities to cater to those with peanut allergies as well.

Here’s how the device works: Take a small, pea-sized sample of the food you want to test, and place it into one of Nima’s single-use capsules, which resemble slim canisters for film rolls. Secure the lid, insert the capsule into the device, and switch it on. After a few minutes of whirling and clicking, a symbol will appear on the LED screen. It will either show a happy face (indicating no allergens) or, for peanuts, a peanut image with the words 'Peanut Found.' You can then open the app to log your test results and share the findings with others, such as warning that a café’s muffins contain peanuts.

The Nima peanut sensor can detect as little as 10 parts per million of peanut protein (the lowest detectable level in clinical studies), while the gluten sensor detects gluten at 20 parts per million or more (the threshold used by the FDA for gluten-free labeling). Unfortunately, if you need to test for both gluten and peanuts, you’ll need two separate devices, as one sensor cannot detect both allergens.

While Nima can help prevent allergic reactions, it’s not foolproof. For example, if food is displayed next to other items, the part you test might be allergen-free, but another part could be contaminated. The company suggests carrying an EpiPen as a backup and staying vigilant when choosing food. However, it offers an added layer of security for those with strict dietary restrictions, or at the very least, a useful warning signal.

The device is compact enough to fit in a purse or jacket pocket and can be held in the palm of your hand. It’s simple enough for children to use and discreet enough not to attract attention when testing your food in public. Its convenience makes it likely that you'll actually use it when dining out.

The Nima peanut sensor is priced at $229.99 for the device alone, or you can purchase a starter kit for $289.99, which includes the sensor and 12 testing capsules.