Local startup AEGLE Palette is developing a “smart placemat” that makes it easier for users to record the calories and nutrients they’re consuming.

The Shawnee-based company talked about its product during the July 29 edition of 1 Million Cups at the Kauffman Foundation.

Right now, if people want to accurately track their food intake, they have to use a kitchen scale, measuring cups, a calorie-count guide or maybe a smartphone app, which can be cumbersome.

“In reality, when it comes to measuring and trying to have a healthy diet, many Americans face the problem of not having an actionable and convenient way to measure,” co-founder Milton Li said.

AEGLE Palette’s placemat automatically how much food a user consumes, then feeds those numbers to a user’s smartphone (and an AEGLE Palette app) via Bluetooth.

Because they know their numbers, users will be able to adjust how they eat in order to avoid obesity, diabetes and other chronic health conditions. It can be used by individuals, families or possibly even entire institutions, CEO Yulin Li said. Insurance companies, for example, could offer discounts to customers who use AEGLE Palette to lower their high blood pressure.

AEGLE Palette—which took part in Kansas State University’s Launch A Business incubator this summer—is planning to launch a crowdfunding campaign this fall. For more information, visit this website.