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A new technology designed to “smell” food like humans—but far more accurately—could soon help detect whether what we eat is safe or potentially harmful.
Scientists have developed a so-called “digital nose” capable of identifying spoiled food, hidden chemicals, and even potential health risks simply by analysing odours.
Food that appears fresh on the outside may already be deteriorating internally due to bacterial or fungal contamination. Such changes are often impossible for humans to detect through sight or smell alone. The digital nose aims to bridge that gap.
The innovation comes at a time when foodborne illnesses tend to rise, particularly during the rainy season, when bacterial, viral, and fungal contamination becomes more comm0n.
Smtoach infections, diarrhoea, and food poisoning cases often increase, with contaminated food or water being a primary cause.
Developed by researchers at the University of California, the device uses an array of advanced sensors embedded in a compact chip. When passed over a food item, these sensors analyse its odour profile and determine whether it is fresh, spoiled, or unsafe for consumption.
Unlike the human nose, the device can detect subtle chemical reactions and microbial activity occurring inside food. It identifies specific gases and organic compounds released as food begins to spoil—signals that are often imperceptible to humans.
Researchers say the digital nose could eventually be integrated into everyday appliances such as refrigerators or even smartphones. This would allow users to receive early warnings before food goes bad.
In restaurants, the device could be used to quickly assess whether meals are safe to eat, while also detecting the presence of preservatives used to make food appear fresher than it actually is.
Beyond food safety, the technology may also have applications in healthcare. Scientists believe that, in the future, similar sensor systems could be used to detect diseases by analysing body odours—opening up new possibilities in early diagnosis.
As the technology evolves, the digital nose could become an essential tool for ensuring food safety, reducing waste, and protecting public health.