Scientists have created an artificial tongue that moves and looks just like the real deal! Here’s why

Get ready to meet the newest member of the food science family: an artificial tongue that’s making waves (or should we say, moves?) in the world of soft food processing! Developed by researchers at the National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and Environment, this nifty gadget mimics real tongue movements, offering a groundbreaking way to understand how we enjoy our favorite soft treats.

The artificial mouth features a silicone tongue designed to replicate the natural elasticity, wettability, and roughness of a human tongue. Powered by three inflatable and deflatable cavities that dance to the rhythm of compressed air, it can perform a variety of movements just like the real thing. With data gathered from Fujita Health University, researchers programmed the tongue to simulate the contractions and motions observed in living subjects, making it a game changer in food research.

In a tasty test run, the artificial mouth took on some soft food classics: a creamy dessert, a chocolate mousse, and a chocolate fondant. The results were impressive! The food boluses it created were strikingly similar to those chewed up by healthy volunteers, matching up in firmness, adhesive properties, and viscosity. This means that the artificial mouth can accurately recreate the dynamics of oral processing, giving scientists valuable insights into how we interact with food.

But why does all this matter? With the global population on the rise and an increasing number of individuals facing age-related challenges like sarcopenia (muscle loss) or difficulties with salivation and swallowing, there’s a pressing need for food products that cater to these specific dietary requirements. Current in vitro models often fall short, lacking the anatomical accuracy needed for effective product development. That’s where this artificial tongue comes in — offering a more precise and adaptable tool for researchers looking to create innovative food options.

And the fun doesn’t stop there! The team is already looking ahead to future designs that will incorporate chewing, making this artificial mouth even more versatile. Imagine a world where our food can be designed and tested with the help of a “tongue” that truly knows its stuff! With this incredible invention, the future of food science looks not just smart but also deliciously exciting!

The findings of this research have been published in Scientific Reports and can be accessed here.

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