CES is known for its diverse array of gadgets and technological innovations that can be both exciting and overwhelming. Leading up to the official opening of the event on January 7th this year, thousands of journalists and tech enthusiasts roam the expansive convention center and surrounding venues in Las Vegas, eager to discover which gadget will capture everyone’s attention.

In past years, the standout items have ranged from impressive televisions, multi-screen smartphones, to even robots. Who would’ve thought that a belt was the must-have gadget back in 2015? The surprise factor is always present.

This year, the spotlight is on a spoon.

Adding flavor with a twist at CES 2025

Kirin’s Electric Salt Spoon poses the intriguing question, “What if you could enjoy more salt without actually increasing your intake, but with a mild electric shock?”

Sodium is essential for our body’s functions, yet many people consume too much salt, often more than what their health professionals recommend. While I won’t dive into health issues such as heart disease, it’s clear that numerous individuals are advised to reduce their salt consumption.

Despite the search for alternatives to salt, it remains a crucial part of flavoring our dishes. Instead of substituting it with other minerals or seasonings, Kirin, a Japanese company, has developed a spoon that uses electrical stimulation to create the sensation of salt on your taste buds. Essentially, it tricks your palate into perceiving food as saltier than it truly is.

Testing the theory

Using the Electric Salt Spoon is more complex than one might anticipate. First, you need to ensure that the spoon head is correctly attached to the hefty handle that houses the technology.

Next, pick from four varying saltiness settings and make sure you’re holding the spoon at the right angle. If not, the handle’s light will remain blue instead of switching to white, indicating it’s okay to taste. Only then can you discover whether it delivers on its promise.

So, does it work?

Yes, sort of. Achieving consistent results requires some practice. However, when I successfully followed all the steps, the electric stimulation genuinely made food taste saltier, but that sensation was fleeting, lasting only while my lips were on the spoon. The rest of the time, I ended up spilling my lukewarm soup down my chin, hoping it wouldn’t shock anything other than my taste buds.

Kirin has certainly made a name for itself this year by introducing the most unusual tech at CES, particularly at the reporter-only Unveiled event, where it drew a huge crowd. It seems that throughout the day, everywhere I look, someone asks if I have experienced “the salt spoon.”

The answer is affirmative, and it is undeniably peculiar. If it could convince me I’m indulging in chocolate cake instead of broccoli, that would be pure genius.

Kirin currently sells the spoon in Japan, priced at 19,800 Yen, which is about $125. It’s a high price for a spoon, but if it aids in adhering to a low-sodium diet, it might be worthwhile if Kirin eventually releases it globally.