Key points from article :
Researchers have developed world's first chopsticks that artificially create the taste of salt.
Device uses a weak current to amplify the taste of salt, to reduce sodium levels.
The team would refine the prototype and hoped to make the chopsticks available to consumers next year.
The traditional Japanese diet tends to be high in salt due to the use of ingredients such as miso and soy sauce.
The health ministry has proposed reducing daily salt intake to a maximum of 7.5 gms for men and 6.5 gms for women.
Miyashita and Kirin said clinical tests confirmed that the device enhances the salty taste of low-sodium food by 1.5 times.
High salt intake can contribute to high blood pressure, the single biggest cause of heart attacks and strokes.
“To prevent these diseases, we need to reduce the amount of salt we take,” said Kirin researcher.
Miyashita’s lab also invented a lickable TV screen that imitates the flavours of various foods.
