Mastication Check Crackers" by Sakata Rice Crackers Investigation of the relationship between masticatory function and lifestyle

Sakata Rice Cracker Co. (Headquarters: Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture) presented the results of a study conducted jointly with the Akita Dental Association to evaluate masticatory function using "Mastication Check Crackers" at the 36th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Mastication (September 14-15, 2025). In this study, we investigated the relationship between masticatory function and dietary habits and lifestyle, and examined its usefulness.

Research results at the Japanese Society for Mastication Research

Background

Decline in masticatory function affects nutritional intake and quality of life, leading to oral frailty and systemic health risks. To address these issues, we aim to establish the "mastication check rice cracker," which was born from the field of dentistry, as a more general evaluation tool.

Outline of the research

We measured the number and duration of chewing using "mastication check rice crackers" on local residents, and investigated the relationship with dietary habits such as missing breakfast and eating early, lifestyle habits such as smoking and drinking, and oral environment such as the number of teeth and denture use. As a result, associations were confirmed in several items, indicating the possibility that this tool can reflect daily lifestyle habits and the state of oral functions.

Significance of this study

This study is significant in that it can evaluate a series of processes from chewing to swallowing by utilizing "natural food forms (rice crackers).

By examining the relationship with diet and lifestyle, we showed the applicability to preventive dentistry and prevention of lifestyle-related diseases.

We aim to establish this as a general screening tool that can be used not only in dental clinics, but also in community health care and nursing care settings.

What is Mastication Check Crackers?

A cracker that allows you to check your oral health status while enjoying a delicious meal.

If a piece can be swallowed within 30 times, the adult's masticatory function is judged to be normal. This product is useful for early detection of oral frailty. Softened by saliva and low in salt, the rice cracker has a texture that is easy for the elderly and children to eat.

The standard value of 30 times of mastication is for adults. If the number of times chewed is 31 times or more, consultation and consultation with a specialized institution is recommended. The 30-chewing standard does not apply to children, but it can be used as a snack, for chewing training, or as a test food to check eating habits.

Future plans

In the future, we will continue to study the relationship with swallowing function and develop this evaluation method as one that can be used in a wide range of settings.

Company Profile

Company name: Sakata Rice Cracker Co.

Representative: Eishi Sato

Location: 2-24 Ryouha-cho, Sakata-shi, Yamagata 998-0832

Business description: Production and sales of rice crackers, tourism business

URL ： https://www.sakatabeika.co.jp/