Hiromi Nakamura, a project associate professor at the University of Tokyo, and Homei Miyashita, a professor at Meiji University, were honored with the Ig Nobel Prize in Nutrition on September 14 for their study on using electricity to enhance taste. Similarly, Christian Chan, an associate professor at the International Christian University in Tokyo, became a co-winner of the Ig Nobel Prize in Education for his team's research on the connection between dull teachers and disengaged students.
Back in 2011, Nakamura, supervised by Miyashita during her graduate studies, conducted experiments to investigate how electrical stimulation affects the taste of food. By applying a small amount of electricity to a piece of agar on her tongue, Nakamura discovered a noticeable change in taste, surprising her with the results. Considering the potential future use of this technology at dining tables, Nakamura proceeded to attach positive and negative electrodes to chopsticks and drinking straws. She then consumed various food samples, such as cheese and sport drinks, confirming discernible alterations in their flavors.
Through careful adjustments of electrode placements and the direction of electrical currents, Nakamura observed fluctuations in the intensity of acidity and bitterness in the different ingredients. Besides, Miayashita and Kirin Holdings Co. collaborated to develop Electric Salt eating utensils in the previous year. These utensils aim to enhance the saltiness of food for individuals on low-sodium diets due to health conditions like high blood pressure.
Both Nakamura and Miyashita expressed their gratitude for the recognition received, emphasizing the valuable discoveries made through their research. Additionally, Christian Chan's team conducted an experiment at a junior high school in Hong Kong, leading to their Ig Nobel Prize in Education. Surprisingly, Chan noted the amusement caused by the acknowledgment of boredom research.
Due to precautions against COVID-19, the award ceremony was held online for the fourth consecutive year.