North Carolina State University students invented a color-changing nail polish that detects common date-rape drugs.
Founded as Undercover Colors, the startup aimed to provide a discreet, preventative tool to help college students protect themselves.
By simply dipping a polished finger into a drink and stirring, users could visually confirm if their beverage had been spiked with substances like Rohypnol, GHB, or Xanax, which are notoriously odorless and tasteless.
While the original nail polish concept captured widespread media attention and earned millions in investor backing, the complex chemistry behind liquid-based testing eventually led the team to pivot. The company successfully engineered the technology into a highly reliable, button-sized test kit called SipChip. Though the medium evolved, the students' mission to combat drug-facilitated sexual assault remains an influential milestone in the integration of science, fashion, and personal safety.
source: Hartmans, A.. Date-Rape Drug Testing Kit for Drinks Costs $5. Business Insider.