Extrapolating from European statistics, 220 to 250 million people may suffer from food allergies worldwide. In the US one out of three people has a food allergy or modifies the family diet because of a suspected food allergy in a family member. Approximately 5% of children and 4% of teens and adults have clinically proven allergic reactions to foods.
220 to 250 million people suffer from food allergies.
Globally, about 35 % of adults are overweight, with half a billion being obese with a body mass index of over 30. According to The International Diabetes Federation , around half a billion people will have diabetes by 2035; half of them will be undiagnosed. Food allergies, obesity and diabetes are only the most striking examples where knowing calorie intake and ingredients are pivotal in managing medical issues day and day out.
Given these statistics, the European Commission launched a €1 million prize challenge to develop an affordable, mobile, non–invasive solution that enables users to measure and analyze their food intake. The contest runs until the end of 2016. Hundreds of other similar initiatives are needed to help people deal with diabetes or obesity.
Original article from: http://medicalfuturist.com/food-scanners/