One of the team members from Undercover Colors, a US-based group who claim to have invented a nail polish that detects date rape drugs in drinks

The furore comes as a US-based team of researchers claim to have invented a nail polish that detects date rape drugs such Rohypnol, Xanax, and GHB in drinks.

North Carolina State University student group Undercover Colors makes the unlikely sell of being "the first fashion company empowering women to prevent sexual assault".

They claim their nail polish will change colour if it comes into contact with so-called "date rape" drugs in drinks so that "any woman will be empowered to discreetly ensure her safety by simply stirring her drink with her finger".

But critics have been quick to point out that alcohol is far more commonly used in cases of rape, as opposed to pharmaceutical drugs.

And once again, the concept - however well intended - puts the onus of the crime on the potential victim, rather than the rapist.

Tara Culp-Ressler of Think Progress told the Washington Post that the nail polish could have a detrimental effect on women who are assaulted.

"Any college students who don’t use the special polish could open themselves up to criticism for failing to do everything in their power to prevent rape," she noted.

What do you think? What can be done to combat flailing rape conviction rates in the UK and how can we overcome myths and stereotypes related to sexual offences? Let us know in the comments section below or on Twitter.

For more information on rape statistics and victim support, visit Rape Crisis England & Wales.

Photos: Rex Features

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