Japan’s microalgae supplement firm launches urine test that detects calcium, zinc levels
The company said that the accuracy of the test results was on average 90 per cent or higher compared to tests conventionally used in medical institutions.
Other items tested include magnesium, vitamin C, salt, water, carbohydrates, fats, oxidative stress, vegetable, and alcohol intake.
The company also works with registered dietitians to advise users dietary changes that they could adopt to improve their nutrients levels.
The test kit, marketed as “Nutrition Condition Checker”, uses both urine testing and AI technology to make the assessment.
It is sold at JPY$2,398 (US$16) in pharmacies.
The company said that the test was launched to help consumers check the effects regular exercise or the health supplements that they are taking.
“By providing this new testing service, customers will be able to check their nutritional status at any time they like, which will encourage them to become more health conscious and improve their lifestyles, thereby contributing to improving their quality of life and extending their healthy lifespan,” said the company.
The target audience include individuals who want to know if they are getting enough nutrition, are concerned about calcium deficiency, or want to know their nutritional status immediately without visiting the hospital, said the company.
It developed the test kit with healthcare firm Yuurea Corporation since April last year. Yuurea has been researching how to instantly analyse the state of health from urine through a partnership with the University of Tokyo.
In May this year, Euglena piloted the test kit among corporate customers before improving it for mass market sale.
To use it, users will need to provide their urine sample on the test strip and take a picture of the test kit using the test kit’s smartphone app.
The mobile app will then assess the urine sample using AI and produce the test results in about two minutes.
In addition to an overall score that shows overall nutritional balance, the result of each nutrient will be displayed on a 10-point scale.
Unlike most other self-testing services, the company said that there was no need to submit test samples by mail and the tests could be taken at the users’ convenience.
“In addition, the test results are stored in the app, so past results can also be viewed. By taking the test regularly, such as once a month or once a week, you can see the changes you have made so far.
“It can be used in a variety of situations, such as checking the effects of your regular exercise or the supplements you take,” said the company.
