The social media video that depicts meat spasming after the application of salt has generated varied reactions. Nonetheless, there is a scientific explanation behind this phenomenon that, upon understanding, may alter one’s initial perception of the video.
A video that has gone viral showcases the reaction of freshly cut meat when salt is applied, causing many viewers to reconsider their dietary choices. We invite you to watch the video and share your thoughts on it.
Upon watching the video, it becomes apparent that it focuses solely on meat and does not contain any graphic content. Nevertheless, the reaction triggered by the salt makes it repulsive to some viewers.
From a scientific perspective, when salt is poured onto freshly cut meat, it induces spasms and contractions, giving the illusion of vitality.
Interestingly, many people commonly season their meat with salt during the cooking process, which intensifies the aversion for certain individuals.
You may have encountered YouTube videos in the past that exhibit freshly prepared squid dishes soaked in soy sauce, causing the tentacles to writhe as if alive. Similarly, frog legs have been subjected to a similar treatment with salt, eliciting similar reactions.
Before your imagination runs wild in search of an explanation for these peculiar movements, we would like to present you with a genuine scientific elucidation.
The meat shown in the video is remarkably fresh, to the point where the neurons within the tissue remain intact and capable of reacting. This serves as the basis for the phenomenon.
Whether in granular form or as salty soy sauce, salt triggers a response from these neurons, resulting in the observable reactions in the meat.
For a more detailed explanation, an article published in Scientific American last year delves deeper into this topic. It states, “All cells exhibit polarity, meaning the concentration of charged atoms, known as ions, within their internal fluid differs from that in the external fluid. This disparity in ion concentrations creates a variance in charge, also known as voltage, across the cell membrane.”
“This voltage disparity, known as membrane potential, allows neurons to function.”
“When neurons are inactive, they maintain their membrane potential by actively expelling sodium ions and absorbing potassium ions, thereby maintaining a voltage difference of approximately -70 millivolts.”
“However, upon neuronal activation, specific channels open, permitting an influx of sodium ions.”
“This rapid change in charge triggers the opening of potassium channels, facilitating the outward flow of potassium.”
“At a certain point, all channels close, and the active pumps work to restore the resting membrane potential. However, this process also triggers the opening of nearby channels.”
“As a result, the signal propagates from one end of the neuron to the other, with channels opening successively along the path.”
In simpler terms, when fresh meat retains functional neurons, the addition of sodium chloride salt induces an excitatory response.
However, individuals who have come across this resurfaced video are less enthusiastic about it, with many expressing their reluctance to consume meat.
One person commented, “It’s extremely unsettling. I feel a sense of unease,”
while another added, “This visual could actually push me towards a vegetarian lifestyle.”
A third individual humorously remarked, “I’ve just placed an order for a salad.”
The version of this phenomenon featuring a squid dish may have caught your attention previously.
It’s worth noting that the same principles apply in that scenario as well. The freshness of the squid and the presence of active neurons can lead to similar reactions when exposed to soy sauce or other salty substances.
In conclusion, understanding the scientific explanation behind the spasms observed in the video helps demystify the initial shock factor. The presence of fresh meat and its responsive neurons, combined with the influence of salt, creates this fascinating yet unsettling display. So, the next time you come across such a video, you can appreciate it from a more informed perspective.