Japan researchers develop electric chopsticks that enhance salty taste, promote better health
- The device uses a weak electrical current to transmit sodium ions from food to the mouth, and the salty taste is enhanced 1.5 times
- The average Japanese adult consumes about 10g of salt per day, double the amount recommended by the WHO, this device will help reduce sodium in diets
Japanese researchers have developed computerised chopsticks that enhance salty tastes, potentially helping those who need to reduce sodium in their diets.
Co-developed by Meiji University professor Homei Miyashita and drink maker Kirin Holdings Co, the chopsticks enhance tastes using electrical stimulation and a minicomputer worn on a wristband.
The device uses a weak electrical current to transmit sodium ions from food, through the chopsticks, to the mouth where they create a sense of saltiness, said Miyashita.
“As a result, the salty taste enhances 1.5 times,” he said.
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Japanese ‘smart’ chopsticks enhance food flavours to make them more savoury
Miyashita and his lab have explored various ways that technology can interact with and stimulate human sensory experiences. He has also developed a lickable TV screen that can imitate various food flavours.