Hammad Khalid
A Japanese researcher has created a prototype “lickable” TV screen that can simulate food flavors, according to Reuters.
Dubbed Taste-the-TV, ten canisters spray flavor onto a “hygienic film” which is rolled over the screen for the viewer to lick. Professor Homei Miyashita of Meiji University suggested that it may be used to remotely teach cooks or sommeliers.
“The goal is to make it possible for people to have the experience of something like eating at a restaurant on the other side of the world, even while staying at home,” he told Reuters.
If made commercially, the TV would cost $875 (£735),
Professor Homei
Additionally, Professor Homie is reportedly in talks with manufacturers about other possible applications of the flavor-spraying technology, such as adding flavors to toast.
In the era of Covid-19, this kind of technology could enhance the way people connect with the outside world, Prof Miyashita believes.
But on Twitter, people wondered if the middle of a global pandemic was the right time to launch Taste-the-TV. “During this pandemic?” wrote one, “Very likely to make a breakthrough in times of corona :)” another joked.
Source: BBC
In the past, Prof Miyashita and his students have produced a range of devices related to taste, including “a fork that makes food taste richer”.
Journalists were shown a demonstration of the device by a student. She told the machine she wanted “sweet chocolate”, and after a few attempts the order was sprayed on to the plastic film for her to taste. “It’s kind of like milk chocolate,” she is reported to have said, according to BBC.
Based on his Professor’s historical background, we may witness this become the most unusual or surprising innovation in history!
