Flew MAN-HEL yesterday and experienced a new kind of security test. Or, to be precise, my better half did.

She was picked out after x-raying and she was asked to squeeze a bit of her hand lotion (which was properly in a ziplock bag) onto a piece of fabric. The sample was then tested with a strip of paper that looked similar to a lithmus paper. After the paper did not change color, she was told the lotion was OK and she could go.

Apparently, the test is brand new and has only been used for three days at MAN. The official applying the test was quite friendly and he indicated that his main purpose was to try out the testing procedure for himself. He did not explain exactly what the test is for, but one would assume it is used for detecting dangerous substances in liquids or creams.

Has anybody else been through this test and does anybody know what exactly does the procedure test?

Cheers,
T.