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Salt in the soup: Demonstration of electric chopsticks in Tokyo
Photo: Issei Kato / REUTERS
Japanese researchers have developed chopsticks that, with the help of a computer, can enhance salty tastes - potentially helpful for people on a low-sodium diet.
Meiji University professor Homei Miyashita and beverage company Kirin Holdings teamed up to develop the chopsticks, which use electrical stimulation and a minicomputer embedded in a wristband to enhance flavor.
The device uses a low-level electric current to transport sodium ions from the food through the chopsticks to the mouth, creating the salty sensation, Miyashita explained.
"As a result, the salty taste is increased 1.5 times," he said.
Miyashita and his lab are researching different ways technology can interact with and stimulate human sensory experiences.
He has also developed a TV screen that can be licked, imitating different tastes.
Market launch planned for 2023
The flavor-enhancing chopsticks could be of particular importance in Japan, where the traditional diet relies heavily on salty flavors.
On average, Japanese adults consume about ten grams of salt per day, double the amount recommended by the World Health Organization.
Excessive sodium intake has been linked to higher incidences of high blood pressure, stroke and other health risks.
"To prevent these diseases, we must reduce our salt intake," said Kirin researcher Ai Sato.
“If we wanted to do that the traditional way, we would either have to eliminate our favorite food from the menu or endure bland food.”
Miyashita and Kirin continue to refine their chopstick prototype.
They hope to be able to launch the product on the market as early as next year.
ak/Reuters