A rapid, low-cost, point-of-consumption detection device for gluten in food.

Allergy Amulet, Inc., Madison WI

Investigators

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY Allergy Amulet, Inc. is committed to providing greater food transparency with a rapid, portable, point-of-consumption gluten detection device. Gluten poses a significant and growing risk for the millions of Americans living with gluten-related disorders, with symptoms ranging from abdominal pain to death. Sufferers of gluten-related disorders face higher anxiety and fear when consuming food products prepared by others due to cross-contamination, misinformation, etc. A reliable, portable device capable of accurately detecting gluten-containing foods and ingredients would be a vast improvement on the status quo. The proposed technology will serve as a supplemental management tool for users by enabling them to directly sample their food for unwanted ingredients and providing an additional layer of assurance that foods prepared by others are safe. The objective of this Phase I effort is to demonstrate the feasibility of a low-cost electrochemical sensing platform capable of detecting gluten in complex foods. Toward this objective, Phase I encompasses the following Specific Aims: 1) develop a sensing platform for selective detection of gluten; 2) validate the sensors against a diverse array of whole foods. The Principal Investigator on this project, Dr. Dan Sundhoro, has extensive experience in the design of bioconjugation and sensing platforms in complex backgrounds. Allergy Amulet, Inc. focuses on allergy detection and related technologies, and has carried out market research and established strategic partnerships within the allergy community and plans to commercialize the device. The company will oversee the feasibility study and commercialization aspects of the project. Relationship to Phase II Work: Successful completion of Phase I aims will allow us to pursue Phase II funding, which will be used to further optimize the sensor technology for sensitivity and specificity and advance the commercialization of the device for consumer use. Allergy Amulet will leverage its existing investor network and board of directors, including allergists, doctors, healthcare executives, scientists, seasoned entrepreneurs, and extensive connections across myriad industries will help ensure a successful transition to market. Successful commercialization will result in a product with high market value that could help prevent thousands of emergency room visits per year and potentially save lives.