Silly myths and inventions in 2011

It’s that time of year again. Time to put aside the pursuit of better health through science and look at exceptionally ridiculous science and innovation achievements in food and nutrition — proven to improve health through the remedy of good cheer. Here are some myths and inventions that occupied researchers in 2011.

Is your mouth too busy with other input or output? Danish urban folklore suggests an alcoholic footbath is another way to get tipsy. Maybe that was the drunken excuse winemakers of ancient times — who regularly stomped grapes with their feet as part of their process — gave for their constant intoxication. Three researchers put this legend to the test by submerging their feet in laundry tub full of vodka for 3 hours while measuring their blood-alcohol levels every 30 minutes. The study was published in the British Medical Journal. Unsurprisingly, not much happened to their blood alcohol levels. On the other hand “self confidence and urge to speak increased slightly at the start of the study, probably due to the setup”. The sober conclusion: feet are impenetrable to the alcohol component of vodka.

Have you heard of the Ig Nobel Prizes ceremony? It is held every year at Harvard University, it spoofs the Nobel prizes and is presided over by real Nobel winners. The prizes are awarded for scientific achievements that make you laugh, then think.

A group of Japanese researchers won the Chemistry Ig Nobel for their lifesaving horseradish-based alarm system. After trying hundreds of odors, including rotten eggs, they determined that inhalation of air-diluted wasabi is the ideal wake up call.

Who said brushed teeth should smell fresh and clean? After completing your ritual brushing consider reintroducing the flavors you washed away with innovative floss. Already on the market: bacon floss, frosted cupcake floss, as well as pickle flavor.