TOKYO — Monday's product launch marks the first commercialization of technology that last year won an Ig Nobel Prize, which honors unusual and whimsical research.Kirin will sell just 200 of its Electric Salt Spoons online for 19,800 yen this month and a limited run at a Japanese retailer in June, but is hoping for 1 million users globally within five years. Sales overseas will start next year.
Kirin, which is pivoting towards healthcare from its traditional beer business, said the technology has particular significance in Japan, where the average adult consumes about 10 grams of salt per day, double the amount recommended by the World Health Organization.Excess sodium intake is related to increased incidence of high blood pressure, strokes and other ailments."Japan has a food culture that tends to favor salty flavors," said Kirin researcher Ai Sato.