Ohio State Researchers Develop VR Device to Simulate Tastes

The 'e-Taste' system uses chemical sensors and wireless technology to replicate flavors remotely, adding a new sensory dimension to virtual reality.

The e-Taste device, developed at Ohio State University, uses chemical sensors to analyze and replicate the five basic tastes: sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami.
The system transmits flavor data wirelessly, enabling remote users to experience tastes without consuming actual food or drink.
Human trials showed a 70% success rate in distinguishing sour taste intensities, though results were less consistent for identifying specific flavors like cake or coffee.
Researchers demonstrated the device's remote functionality by transmitting flavor data from California to Ohio for successful taste replication.
Potential applications include immersive gaming, virtual dining, medical diagnostics, and aiding individuals with taste impairments, such as those caused by long COVID.