According to a Japan Today report, a prototype of an “electric flavoring fork,” which generates a salty taste by stimulating the tongue with electricity, has been developed in Japan.
The concept behind the fork was based on “electric flavouring” technology which was being researched by Hiromi Nakamura at Rekimoto Lab, Interfaculty Initiative in Information Studies at the University of Tokyo. According to the report, tongues feel salty or sour when electricity is applied to them.
There is an electronic circuit and rechargeable battery in the handle of the fork. When the user inserts the head of the fork into the mouth with food while pressing a button on the handle, a certain level of electric current is applied to the tongue.
The prototype was created for “No Salt Restaurant,” a project to offer a salt-free full-course meal. The product would be targeted mainly at those who require a low-salt or salt-free diet. The electric fork also generates sour and metallic tastes.
Testing of the prototype also found that spices such as pepper and garlic intensify the saltiness created when using the fork.
The degree of saltiness also differs depending on other factors including eating habits and age.
The prototype cost ¥2,000 (approx. GBP 12.56) plus the cost of a fork.
Source: The Japan Times
————————————————————————————
TJC offers an extensive global network of professional & experienced multilingual translators, proof-readers and interpreters. We also have academic researchers, specialists and speakers, who are all native speakers of over 100 languages. Our expert translators and interpreters are based all over the globe and can assist you with projects of all kinds.
For translation and interpreting services in Japanese, please visit our sister site, The Japanese Connection.
See our LinkedIn profile or visit us on Twitter
The Japanese Connection 