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.
30 Articles
30 Articles
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. The device called “Spikeless” was developed in the university’s faculty of applied science, and the inventors hope for widespread adoption to combat drugs being added to drinks and to prevent sexual…
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.

UBC scientists invent stir stick that detects drugged drinks
Breaking News, Sports, Manitoba, Canada
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 45% of the sources lean Left
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
Ownership
To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage