Recently, a French startup unveiled a new device in the form of an electronic pen, designed to detect drugs in beverages. It aims to combat the use of certain substances such as gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), more commonly known as the “rape drug.” Much more durable than traditional disposable tests, the pen is reusable many times.
Fighting GHB at Parties
The holiday period is often associated with all kinds of parties. However, poisoning risks linger year-round, particularly in bars and nightclubs. In general, sexual predators favor parties because of how easy it is to hide substances in the drinks of revelers.
Here the focus is mainly on gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), a powerful central nervous system depressant capable of slowing brain activity and bodily functions. Although GHB is typically used for medical purposes, it is diverted in the nightlife scene for its disinhibiting and euphoric effects, which resemble alcohol. Most notably, it is the “rape drug” poured into victims’ drinks without their knowledge in order to commit sexual assaults.
A Device Capable of Detecting About Thirty Substances
As reported by France 3 Régions on June 18, 2026, the French startup Lueur has decided to contribute to combating this scourge by developing a very particular device. It is the B-SAFE, an electronic detector pen that is connected and capable of spotting suspicious substances in glasses. Beyond GHB, the device can detect around thirty substances, including benzodiazepines (Valium) as well as certain narcotics and medications.
Lueur says it surveyed 1,500 students, of whom 82% regularly worry about the safety of their drinks. Additionally, 60% of respondents stated they had directly or indirectly faced chemical coercion.
A Durable and Effective Device
Unlike existing setups such as test strips and disposable coasters, the B-SAFE pen emphasizes durability. In fact, it can be reused about 5,000 times. Moreover, the B-SAFE pen conducts an analysis in just a few seconds after it comes into contact with the liquid. The device then emits a light signal, with green indicating the absence of drugs. If the signal is red, the person should absolutely avoid consuming the contents of the glass.
“Adopt the first reliable and reusable scientific innovation designed to combat chemical submission and securely protect your establishment in the long term.”, can be read on the startup’s website.
The Lueur startup has Innovated, in that if a problem arises, the device emits an alert in addition to the simple light signal. Indeed, it turns out that it operates with an app or system that allows alerts to be escalated and helps trigger internal safety protocols. The system thus notifies security and facilitates contact with emergency services, notably SAMU. Consequently, the startup primarily targets professionals in the nightlife and events industry such as bars, clubs, and festivals but also associations, local authorities, and student parties.
