Electric Seasoning: Healthy Enjoyment of Delicious Salt Reduction

The idea that electrical stimulation can alter taste perception may sound futuristic, but the Ajinomoto Group is developing a wearable “electric seasoning” device that aims to do just that in the fairly near future. Our story begins when we send writer whom we’ll call Max, a self-proclaimed “non-cook”, to investigate this intriguing development at the Ajinomoto Group’s Institute of Food Sciences and Technologies.

At first, the term “electric seasoning” might sound out there. However, the concept is quite simple: a device uses mild electrical stimulation to enhance taste perception, making food taste saltier. This technology is particularly promising for individuals on low-sodium diets, allowing them to enjoy flavorful meals without increasing salt intake.

We spoke with Ryo Matsumoto, in charge of the Corporate Research & Business Planning Department’s Acceleration Group and Takumi Funamizu, a researcher at the Food Products Division’s Institute of Food Sciences and Technologies, to understand the inspiration and development behind this innovative project.

Max tells of his experience: “According to our sources, the Ajinomoto Group’s Institute of Food Sciences and Technologies is developing something they call electric seasoning, which controls taste perception using electrical stimulation. Unlike electric cutlery like spoons and forks, the Institute is working on a wearable device resembling headphones. The term ‘electric seasoning’ might sound suspicious, but I was eager to uncover the truth.”

Funamizu explains the science behind the device: “The device sends mild electrical currents from the front of the lower jaw to the back of the neck, enhancing the perceived taste of even lightly seasoned foods.”

Matsumoto adds: “Our goal is to contribute to delicious low-sodium diets. Many people on low-sodium diets due to hypertension or kidney disease find their meals less enjoyable. We aim to improve their quality of life by allowing them to experience fuller flavors.”

Matsumoto shares a personal story that motivates his work: “My late father suffered from a severe illness that impaired his sense of taste. He would often pour sauce over plain rice just to taste something. This made me realize how important it is to preserve the joy of eating for everyone, especially those battling illnesses. This experience drives my mission to ensure that no one has to give up the pleasure of food.”

Initially, the team experimented with electric cutlery but faced limitations. Matsumoto recounts: “We realized that a wearable device would be more effective. It was a significant shift from our original concept, but it allowed for continuous taste enhancement during eating.” The project took a turn when the wearable device concept was introduced. Now in its fifth prototype version, the device is closer to becoming a reality. Funamizu joined the project during the third version’s development, bringing valuable expertise in food product development.

Matsumoto emphasizes the importance of user-friendly design: “A device must be visually appealing to gain acceptance. We took inspiration from young people wearing headphones around their necks. We aim for a design that encourages positive adoption, especially for those on low-sodium diets.”

Funamizu details the testing phase: “Internal experts and individuals on low-sodium diets tested the device, experiencing enhanced flavors in various foods. The results showed significant enhancement in taste perception, validating our approach.”

Matsumoto envisions broader applications: “We hope to integrate electric seasoning into everyday life and even collaborate with medical institutions to support low-sodium diets comprehensively. Given the Ajinomoto Group’s experience in food production, the organization is uniquely positioned not only to create electric taste devices but also to provide them alongside sodium-reduced foods. This approach can offer customers a comprehensive sodium reduction solution that seamlessly integrates into their everyday lives.”

The Ajinomoto Group aims to extend healthy lifespans globally by 2030. Electric seasoning is a significant step towards making delicious, low-sodium meals accessible to all. Matsumoto and Funamizu’s dedication ensures that this innovative technology will continue to evolve, bringing the joy of eating to everyone. Electric seasoning aligns with the Ajinomoto Group’s work to contribute to the well-being of people and the planet through “AminoScience.” The Group is working to make the device even more user-friendly, helping people enjoy eating ever more.