A new Japanese invention will help reduce salt consumption. This smart spoon was developed by beverage giant Kirin Holdings. It emits a weak electric field, concentrating sodium ion molecules on the tongue. This enhances the perception of saltiness in food.
The spoon weighs 60 grams and is powered by batteries.
Excess salt consumption has been proven to increase the risk of strokes and other diseases, and also contribute to high blood pressure.
This spoonful is especially relevant for Japan, where each adult on average consumes about 10 grams of salt per day. This is twice the amount recommended by the World Health Organization.
The company will sell about 200 spoons online by the end of May. They will cost approximately $130 each. A limited edition will be available at retail stores in Japan in June.
And within five years, a million Japanese are expected to have such a spoon.
Sales abroad will begin in 2025.
Note that the developers of this spoon were awarded the Ig Nobel Prize in nutrition last year. It is awarded for unusual and bizarre research and development.
