Some of my co-workers are gluten-intolerant, and one has celiac disease. Their symptoms range from feeling yucky to bones aching terribly, and in the case of celiac disease can result in damage to the small intestine. So I was intrigued when I heard of Nima’s Gluten Sensor, created by Shireen Yates and Scott Sundvor.
Nima claims that 1 in 3 foods labeled “gluten-free” actually contain some gluten. Its website explains the Nima test, but once I started reading about 13F6 and 14G11 antibodies, algorithms and 20ppm, I gave up on trying to translate all that information. If you want the specifics, visit nimasensor.com (click the “Nima Science” link under the “Support” drop-down menu).
The test involves just three steps: Place a pea-size piece of food into a capsule (five prongs hold it in place, but you can also test liquids), screw the cover on as tight as you can (it won’t line up completely, but that’s OK), turn the device on, place the capsule inside and push “start.” A happy face will appear to confirm the food is gluten-free, or the image of a stalk of wheat will indicate that it is not.
An app is available that syncs to cellphones to keep a log of items tested.
>> Does it work? Yes, with some exceptions.
>> Pros: Cute triangular design (about 3-1/2 inches all around), small enough to carry in a purse or some pockets. The rechargeable battery comes with its own USB cord. Nima’s social media community gives people a place to share their gluten-free knowledge. There are also reports ($10 each or $25 for all three) that cover items sold at Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods Market and Costco; a map of gluten-free restaurants in the United States; and other information to help those who are gluten-intolerant.
>> Cons: Can’t accurately detect gluten in soy sauce, beer, alcohol, heavy vinegar solutions and fermented or hydrolyzed food. Pretty pricey for something that can’t guarantee items are gluten-free. Capsules are one-use only and not recyclable. The device makes noise while it’s processing the food — not really loud, but it is audible. A test takes around four minutes.
>> Cost and availability: $199 (free shipping) plus cost of capsules, $58.47 to $72.95 per dozen
>> Worth it?: I wouldn’t recommend this for someone with celiac disease, especially since it can’t detect the gluten in soy sauce and fermented foods so common in Hawaii. I am, however, looking forward to Nima’s peanut sensor, which is still being created. I have high hopes for that sensor. I know two children who could benefit from it if it’s accurate.
Got a gadget that you love? Curious about one you’d like us to test? Email crave@staradvertiser.com or write Crave, Honolulu Star-Advertiser, 7 Waterfront Plaza, Suite 210, Honolulu 96813.
