#Japan #Tokyo #JAL #Chupica #JT

Innovative Water-Free Oral Care: Chupica

Introduction

On September 16, 2025, Japanese Tobacco Inc. (JT) and Japan Airlines (JAL) announced a groundbreaking collaboration focused on oral hygiene in confined environments. Inspired by the unique challenges faced by astronauts, these companies have initiated a feasibility study for Chupica, a tablet designed for mouthwash that does not require water. This initiative marks the first joint project under the Think Space Life (TSL) business co-creation platform initiated by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

The Concept Behind Chupica

Chupica is an innovative mouthwash tablet that can maintain oral hygiene without water, making it particularly suitable for use in space and other water-scarce situations. Launched from concepts developed during the TSL initiative, the product aims to enhance everyday life on Earth using insights gained from space missions. The original product, mouthpace®, was utilized on the International Space Station (ISS) as an effective means for oral care and has been successfully sent to space on four occasions since its conception in 2020.

Experiment Overview

The feasibility trial involved approximately 100 JAL flight attendants who tested Chupica during long-haul flights and at foreign destinations. The primary goals of the trial included gathering data on user experience and feedback about the convenience and effectiveness of Chupica. Participants were asked to use the tablets during breaks and provide their assessment through questionnaires. This direct consumer insight is crucial for further refining the product to suit market needs.

Goals of JT and JAL

Both JT and JAL are committed to solving challenges arising from life in space and enhancing daily living. Their mission is centered around the keywords “from space to ground” and “from extremes to everyday life,” signifying their dedication to bridging innovations from the challenges of space travel to everyday lifestyle improvements. By refining Chupica, they strive to bring comfort and richness to the daily routines of consumers.

Benefits of Chupica

Chupica's design caters to users in various situations, from daily routines to outdoor activities, making oral hygiene more accessible. Its portability ensures ease of use, whether at home, on the go, or during emergencies. The feedback from the experiment will contribute to the continuous improvement of Chupica, aiming for a product that adapts to the lifestyles of modern consumers.

Collaborative Efforts

JT has been involved in TSL since 2020, focusing on enhancing quality of life through innovation in extreme environments. They provided Chupica for the experiment, emphasizing its usability in the confined space of an aircraft. JAL has leveraged its extensive experience of over 70 years in providing safe and comfortable flight environments to support this oral care innovation.

Future Endeavors

JAL's vision of “Expanding 空の移動” (air transport) to the realm of space aligns with its long-term strategic goals to contribute to sustainable space exploration. Meanwhile, JT's D-LAB initiative promotes continuous exploration into the concept of “richness of the heart” in various contexts, including extreme environments such as space.

Conclusion

The collaboration of JT and JAL illustrates the innovative spirit of Japanese enterprises, making significant progress in a niche yet vital area of consumer health. As Chupica progresses towards the general market introduction in September 2024, the implications of this project could redefine how oral hygiene products can be used effectively across very different environments.