Japanese Beer Tycoon Launches Electronic Spoon to Prevent Strokes

The electronic spoon transmits a weak electric field from the spoon to concentrate sodium ion molecules on the tongue, enhancing the perception of saltiness in food without the need to add more salt.

“The giant” beverage company from Japan, Kinder Holding, will begin selling an electronic spoon that researchers claim can promote healthier eating by enhancing the salty flavor without adding salt.

At the product launch on May 20, this marked the first commercialization of technology from last year that received the Ig Nobel Prize, an award that honors unusual research.

Kinder Holding launches an electronic spoon capable of creating a salty flavor without adding salt to food.

Kirin will only sell 200 electronic salt spoons online for $127 (approximately 3.2 million VND) this month, with limited quantities available at a Japanese retailer in June.

However, Kirin hopes to reach 1 million users worldwide within five years, with overseas sales set to begin next year.

Notably, the spoon, made from plastic and metal, was developed in collaboration with Professor Homei Miyashita from Meiji University, who has previously demonstrated the flavor-enhancing effects in a prototype electronic chopstick.

This effect works by transmitting a weak electric field from the spoon to concentrate sodium ion molecules on the tongue, enhancing the perception of saltiness in food. Weighing 60g, the spoon is powered by a rechargeable lithium battery.

The spoon can be recharged when the battery runs out.

A Kirin representative stated that this technology holds special significance in Japan, where the average adult consumes about 10 grams of salt per day, double the amount recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Excess salt intake can lead to increased rates of hypertension, stroke, and other conditions.

“Japan has a culinary culture that leans towards salty flavors,” said Ai Sato, a researcher from Kirin.

“Generally, Japanese people need to reduce their salt intake, but it’s very difficult to give up what we are accustomed to eating. That’s why we developed this electronic spoon.”

Reducing daily salt intake can effectively prevent strokes and hypertension.

Excessive salt intake is a major risk factor for hypertension, leading to strokes, heart attacks, and various other cardiovascular diseases. High salt consumption also increases the risk of stomach cancer, kidney disease, osteoporosis, and other health disorders.

The World Health Organization recommends that each adult should consume less than 5 grams of salt per day (equivalent to one teaspoon). However, most people consume twice the recommended amount, approximately 10 grams per day.

5 grams of salt is equivalent to: