Two researchers at UCF are developing a cough drop that can reduce the spread of COVID-19 by making saliva heavier and stickier - it makes sneeze and cough particles fall rather than float. But is there really a market for such a product? Paul Jarley talks with researchers Michael Kinzel and Kareem Ahmed to find out the science behind the lozenge, how soon it could hit store shelves and the similarities to products you already have around the house.

Featured Guests

Kareem Ahmed - Assistant Professor, College of Engineering & Computer Science, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Michael Kinzel - Assistant Professor, College of Engineering & Computer Science, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Cameron Ford - Director, UCF Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

Michael Pape - Dr. Phillips Entrepreneur in Residence; Lecturer, Management

Episode Highlights

0:49 - The origin of the COVID-19 cough drop idea

2:58 - How mechanical engineers got into cough drops

5:18 - How can the COVID cough drop make it to stores?

7:58 - Legal hurdles for the COVID cough drop

11:53 - Who is the target audience for this?

16:27 - How long will it take to get to market?

25:42 - ...Ketchup?

28:48 - What are the learning lessons for students?

33:07 - Final thoughts from Paul Jarley, Cameron Ford and Michael Pape