A local precision machine manufacturer and a prefectural technical research institute have jointly developed a device to measure and indicate the calorie levels of food.When food is put into the machine, called “Calorie Answer,” infrared rays are irradiated through it. The machine identifies the materials of the food by reading the reflected infrared rays, and calculates and indicates the level of calories in it.

The developers have applied with authorities in 11 countries for a patent for the device. The company has been flooded with inquiries from the catering industry.

The machine that looks like a microwave oven is priced at 3 million yen, but the price could be reduced if it can be mass-produced, company officials said.

(毎日インタラクティブ)