American scientists have developed an edible label that can help prevent counterfeit medicines.
Hawaii-based Cellular Bioengineering Inc (CBI) has manufactured the tags using the highest purity silica so they are edible and biologically inert.
Each TruTag costs less than a penny and has its own unique "spectral signature" that identifies the product.
CBI has been awarded a cooperative agreement from the US government to develop the TruTag to help combat counterfeit drugs. The company is to collaborate with Silicon Kinetics of San Diego, California and its porous silicon laboratories in Maui.
The tag can also be used to identify a wide range of products such as aeroplane parts, artworks, currency, electronic components, cosmetics and luxury goods.
"I believe CBI is breaking ground on a new modality of safety, assurance and information essential for consumers and the US Government," said former commander of the US Pacific Admiral Thomas Fargo. "This project has the potential to save lives and make a significant contribution towards the safety and authentication of wide ranging goods and products."
The FDA estimates that 10% of all drugs sold worldwide are counterfeit. Annual global trade in counterfeit goods is estimated to be US$600bn and growing.