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Spotlight: Laser Light Sheet Imaging Shows the Dangers of Airborne Exposure to Allergens

Laser light sheet imaging
Laser light sheet imaging

For some individuals with peanut allergies, just inhaling peanut dust can be deadly. But did you know how easy it is for food particles to become airborne?

This video clip, produced using a technique called laser light sheet imaging, shows how microscopic particles can become airborne — and spread throughout the space you’re in — just from opening or closing a package.

NIST uses imaging like this to show how drugs can spread in enclosed spaces, information that is key for first responders, forensic chemists and other law enforcement officials.

But understanding the spread is relevant for all of us, especially when it comes to locations like classrooms and airplanes.

Follow us on social media for more like this from all across NIST!

Released September 18, 2026, Updated September 24, 2026
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