New gadget could trick kids into eating their greens, say scientists

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13:45, 13 OCT 2016 UPDATED 13:46, 13 OCT 2016
BY JAMES RODGER

It is claimed the device will transform bland tofu into juicy steak – or conjure up chocolate broccoli

Getting your little ones to eat their greens can be one of the more difficult aspects of being a parent.

But, luckily, a new device will trick your child’s tongue and turn even the most unappetising “healthy” food into a delicious treat, according to its creators.

The Taste Buddy, which emits thermal and electric signals that stimulate the taste buds in the mouth, will head to the The Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair in Birmingham next year.

While the early prototype is restricted to imitating sweet or salty tastes, future versions have the potential to completely alter our diets, scientists say.

The device will even be able transform bland tofu into juicy steak – or conjure up chocolate broccoli – it is claimed.

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The Big Bang UK Young Scientists and Engineers Fair, aimed at young people interested in science, technology and engineering, takes place from March 15 to 18 at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham.

Professor Adrian Cheok, from City, University of London, who led the team of scientists and engineers that created the device said: “What started out as a fun engineering experiment has now led to something much more exciting with the potential to have a positive social impact.

“The Taste Buddy could eventually help save lives, by allowing people to switch to healthier food choices.”

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It is claimed the device will transform bland tofu into juicy steak – or conjure up chocolate broccoli

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He added: “Many children hate the taste of vegetables. So I knew that when I became an engineer, I wanted to make a device that could allow children to eat vegetables that taste like chocolate.”

In its current early form the Taste Buddy consists of a 2cm wide tab that sits on the tongue and is wired to a bulky processor.

To enhance sweetness, the device warms up very rapidly and stimulates specific taste receptors that react to heat.

A weak electric current is used to target other taste buds responsible for salty flavours.

Members of the public will have a chance to try out the Taste Buddy for themselves in Birmingham next March.

http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/health/new-gadget-could-trick-kids-12018745