North West manufacturer builds prototype calorie technology

Cheshire-based nutrition technology specialists GEM Nutrition Ltd have developed a prototype portable calorimeter to gauge whether people need to lose, maintain or gain weight.

The technology uses personal measurements for each client and will be trialled in a number of health clubs and gyms.

The Blue instrument has been developed with help from the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) annd will help nutritionists to advise clients on eating and exercising.

For decades it was assumed men need approximately 2,500 calories and women need 2,000 calories a day - but these estimates were based on averages, irrespective of height, weight or other health issues.

GEM’s technology uses a ten-minute test to measure the daily resting metabolic rate, or RMR. From the RMR it is possible to calculate an individual’s daily total energy expenditure (TEE) which is based on the number of calories burnt in a daily routine.

Gem Nutrition MD Austen Bradley said: “For years people have devised their diet and exercise plans on figures based on average calculations. But diets don’t work because they treat everyone the same and everyone is different with unique calorie requirements and metabolic rates.

“What Blue gives us for the first time is an incredibly accurate way to measure both and to work out the best eating and fitness plan to complement them.

“MAS worked closely with us to get the prototype designed and manufactured and into gyms and fitness centres and we are now setting up leasing agreements with health businesses across the UK.”

MAS Advisor Nick Brandwood added: “Blue is a unique product that has already been warmly received in the initial trial sessions and we were very excited to have been involved in its development. It has huge potential in the consumer fitness market as well as for elite athletes and sportspeople who need to maintain their fitness.

“For example if they don’t take in enough calories to meet the demands of their training schedule, their bodies will begin to burn their reserves of muscle as well as fat.

“We are also looking forward to supporting the company in other areas including market research as the product is rolled out across the country.”

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