Arab News Japan

Japanese company Kirin Holdings is now selling an electric spoon that claims to enhance the salty flavor of food without adding extra sodium in order to help Japanese people cut down their daily salt intake.

Co-developed by Meiji University professor Homei Miyashita, the spoon is made of plastic and metal. The effect works by passing a weak electric field from the spoon to the sodium ion molecules on the tongue to enhance the saltiness of food. The spoon runs on a rechargeable lithium battery.

The company is only selling 200 spoons online for approximately ¥19,800 ($127) but plans to expand globally next year. 

“It is a tableware-type device that draws out saltiness and umami taste with the power of weak electricity,” Kirin’s website reads. “The saltiness and umami taste are drawn out by the weak power of electricity. By using it, you can feel the flavor of the food.” 

According to a study conducted by BMC Public Health, the average salt intake of Japanese people is about 10 grams, which is double the amount recommended by the World Health Organization. 

Excessive food intake can cause strokes, high blood pressure, and other life-threating diseases.