A photo of the Jiuzhang light-based quantum computer prototype Photo: courtesy of University of Science and Technology of China 

Scientist Pan Jianwei, dubbed "the father of quantum in China," complained on Tuesday about the misuse of the quantum concept in products ranging from cosmetics to food and drinks, which usually have little to do with this cutting-edge technology, but is only used as a gimmick to attract customers. 

Skincare products featuring "quantum" on their labels, such as so-called "quantum-infused facial masks," must be fake, Pan cited as an example.

On Chinese online-shopping websites like Taobao, it's not surprising to see sellers boasting that their products are bestowed with the benefits of quantum tech. From drinks and snacks to skincare products, the commercialization of quantum seems to be miles ahead of people's understanding of it.

Businesses like to claim their products contain "quantum"-related technology, probably because this concept looks fashionable, Pan said.

Pan's remarks prompted heated discussions on Chinese social media on Wednesday, with many netizens grumbling that those "high-tech" products with no actual high tech involved are no more than a fraud.

"Now I'm wearing 'graphene underwear' my mom bought me, and 'hyaluronic acid leggings' my grandma sent me, while they are simply made of cotton and fiber," one netizen commented.

Global Times