Researchers at UCSF have elucidated the structure of the receptor that makes our sensory nerves tingle when we eat wasabi. As this receptor is important in our perception of pain, knowing its shape should help in the development of new pain medications. A company called Thinfilm, developed very thin, electronic label that tracks vital information about certain foods at each stage of the supply chain. This way, foods like sashimi salmon can have its temperature monitored from the warehouse to the grocery store, supplying information the consumer can use to decide whether to buy it. The label offers a more accurate expiration date which could help decrease food waste and the number of cases of food-borne illnesses.
Sushi Science: A 3-D View of the Body's Wasabi Receptor
– NPR: Shots
Your Sushi May Be Getting Smarter
– The Atlantic
