The KnoNap: George Washington University student creates napkin to detect date rape drugs in drinks

WASHINGTON - A college student in D.C. has created a discreet way to find out what's in your drink before you take a sip.

Danya Sherman, who is a student at George Washington University, created the “KnoNap."

The napkin can detect commonly used date rape drugs in your drink simply by putting a drop of the liquid onto the napkin.

If drugs are detected, you’ll notice a clear color change on the napkin.

Sherman said the idea began as a way to gain closure after someone she thought was her friend drugged and assaulted her back in 2016. But now, she said it has grown into something where she can empower both women and men to always be in the know.

“Seventy percent of sexual assaults occur between two people who know each other and with that in mind, we wanted to create a product that could be seamlessly incorporated into any social setting. Napkins are always around alcohol. They are always in bars and clubs and we’re working to have them integrated into fraternities, social events and social organizations,” Sherman explained. “They’re also easy to carry around in either a pocket or purse so they’re very portable and can be taken anywhere so if you’re uncomfortable, you’re able to take it out and use it at your own discretion.”

Sherman said she hopes to launch the project by the end of 2018.