Rapid tests for detecting nitrates in fruits and vegetables have been developed in Novosibirsk.

A special biogel developed by NSTU scientists will help quickly detect nitrates in vegetables, fruits, and beverages, according to the Novosibirsk News online project.

The test works on a simple chemical reaction. Like litmus paper, simply drop a small amount of watermelon or strawberry juice onto the biogel. If the berries contain nitrates, the gel will turn red.

The scientists note that their research has shown that there is a demand among consumers for such rapid tests. There is even a possibility that the biogel will become freely available on Russian market shelves.