New NIMA Sensor Detects Gluten in Minutes

The NIMA Gluten Sensor, a device designed to help individuals with celiac disease identify gluten in food, has been relaunched and is available for purchase as of National Gluten-Free Day. The second-generation sensor offers improved speed and reliability, with third-party testing confirming its ability to detect gluten from wheat, barley, and rye down to 10 ppm with 99% accuracy. This sensitivity is notable as the FDA permits gluten levels up to 20 ppm in products labeled 'gluten-free'.

Each test utilizes a single-use capsule, where a food sample is placed and then processed within the device. In 2 to 3 minutes, an internal camera reads a test strip, displaying results as either a smiley face for gluten-free or a wheat symbol for gluten presence. The device, which charges via USB-C, can perform up to 40 tests per charge and syncs with the NIMA Now mobile app to log results, track safe foods, and share information within a community database.

Originally developed by MIT graduates in 2013, the NIMA sensor experienced unavailability due to supply chain disruptions. Peter Kolchinsky revived the device in 2025 to support the estimated 3 million Americans living with celiac disease. The sensor retails for $220, with a 10% discount available using code NIMAPRE10. The single-use capsules are sold separately, costing $72 for a six-pack or $61 via subscription. NIMA is also exploring expanding its detection capabilities to other food allergens.