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UBC scientists invent stir stick that detects drugs in drinks

  • Researchers at the University of British Columbia, including Johan Foster and Samin Yousefi, are preparing for real-world testing of 'Spikeless', a seemingly ordinary stir stick that detects common drink-spiking drugs like GHB and ketamine by changing color within 30 seconds.
  • Fueled by concerns from students and numerous warnings from police across Canada, including a recent RCMP public awareness campaign in Nanaimo, B.C. Launched after reports of drinks being drugged at nightclubs, the invention aims to combat drugs being added to drinks and prevent potential sexual assaults.
  • The concept for Spikeless, developed in the faculty of applied science, was devised in 2011, and a prototype has been in development for the last three years.
  • Co-Inventor Samin Yousefi stated that "Anywhere theres a bar  clubs, parties, festivals  theres a risk," and describes the stick as "discreet" compared to similar inventions like cups, coasters, or straws.
  • The inventors hope for widespread adoption of Spikeless in venues, believing it can offer bars and other venues a potential "competitive advantage" by making customers feel safer, with the team launching a startup to scale production.
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CP24CP24
+11 Reposted by 11 other sources
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UBC scientists invent stir stick that detects drugs in drinks

A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia want to make a stir stick drug testing tool for spiked drinks the norm in the hospitality industry, and they’re gearing up to start “real-world testing” in hopes of commercializing the idea.

·Toronto, Canada
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Winnipeg Free PressWinnipeg Free Press
+6 Reposted by 6 other sources
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UBC scientists invent stir stick that detects drugged drinks

Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada

·Winnipeg, Canada
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NOS broke the news in Netherlands on Wednesday, March 26, 2025.
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