By
Mail On Sunday Reporter
Last updated at 1:58 AM on 12th February 2012
Scientists have invented a hand-held gadget that enables the user to detect counterfeit alcohol without opening bottles.
The device works by using a beam of light to analyse the contents. It provides a ‘signature’ of the liquid, which is then compared with a signature of the genuine brand.
If the match is not identical, it flags up the bottle as a fake.
Tested: The new device can detect counterfeit alcohol without opening the bottles
The device, developed at the University of Leicester Space Research Centre, is now being designed for sale.
The centre’s Tim Maskell said: ‘It could be used in a retail outlet or by wholesalers who are buying goods which do not come direct from the manufacturer.
‘There is a need for something that gives a rapid answer over authenticity of alcohol.’
Innovative: The device was designed at the University of Leicester
He added that the device has been trialled on whisky but could be used to verify the authenticity of any alcohol. However, it may require liquid to have some colour to determine a result – which could rule out vodka, which is thought to be the most counterfeited alcohol.
But Mr Maskell said: ‘Vodka may yet have characteristics that will allow us to get a result.’
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