Gadget claims to filter wine sulphites

A gadget that claims to be able to filter out sulphites, “restoring wine to its natural, preservative-free state”, is seeking investment via crowdfunding website Kickstarter.

Üllo claims to be able to strip a wine of sulphites, an antioxidant and antiseptic used in the production of the majority of wines, using its patent-pending Selective Sulfite Capture™ process.

Using a polymer filter, Üllo claims to reduce sulphites to a more “naturally occurring level”, while maintaining a wines original flavour and character.

Some people are more sensitive to sulphites than others, particularly those who suffer with asthma who can experience reactions ranging from rashes and itching to laboured breathing. For the vast majority, sulphites are not harmful with levels limited by law. At high levels, sulphites can make a wine seem harsh and lacking in fruit. However levels in wine are generally less than those that can be found in dried fruits.

Introducing the gadget the company said: “Üllo believes that wine is best enjoyed the way the winemaker intended, without the added sulfites used as a preservative. An estimated three million Americans are sensitive to sulfites resulting in allergies or respiratory problems. Üllo purifies any wine, restoring it to its natural state. ”

Each filter can be reused for up to six months, and are expected to cost around $20 each.

The company has already invested $200,000 scientific research, product design, engineering, testing, branding, PR and business development for Üllo.

It is now seeking a further $100,000 via Kickstarter will allow it to launch its initiatil production. The company has so far raised $12,727 of its $100,000 goal.

Based in Chicago, Üllo was founded in 2014 by James Kornacki, who holds a doctorate in chemistry from Northwestern University.