Digital revolution in the kitchen: How 3D printers will create your next meal

The 3D printing of food has been an evolving method of food production over recent years, and has allowed designers to combine their 3D digital design knowledge with food to produce shapes, textures, tastes, and forms that were previously found too challenging to create by hand, all whilst still being edible.

3D food printing is able to make dishes from different pastes and materials, so it seems we are getting closer to the science-fiction concept. However, this time we are not in a sci-fi movie! Just look at the innovations already offered by different manufacturers who have all food printers that can make chocolate, pasta, sugar, and even more dishes: the possibilities are almost unlimited.

Current 3D food printers are designed to deposit small layers of material — think of a frosting dispenser except the ingredients are squeezed out, layer by layer, by a robotic arm. The latest models of 3D food printers are more complex and detailed. Examples of such devices are those used in the candy and baking industries. The 3D printer ChefJet crystallizes small layers of sugar into several geometric configurations, while Choc-Edge dispenses chocolate from syringes into intricate, delectable designs. Some advanced printers, such as The Foodini, use fresh ingredients filled in stainless steel containers to make different types of foods like stuffed pasta, pizza, brownies, and quiche. There’s a fair amount of companies that are getting involved with this new way of producing food. Some of the key players include TNO (innovation for life), Philips, Electrolux, Barilla, Nestle, NASA, Hershey’s, Modern Meadow, Choc Edge, 3D Systems, Natural Machines, ZMorph, and FabHome, etc.

You will have more customizable food experiences
source: sushi singularity

3D printing food will open the doors to a new level of creativity 

Printers could create nutrient-rich and environmentally-friendly food products and even help address hunger problems in areas that need access to quality and affordable ingredients. The technology also creates an opportunity for food customization. Maybe in the future, you could buy your own customized 3D the printed chocolate bar just as easily as you can buy your favorite snack at the corner shop, or even create your own from your own machine at home! That’s food for thought.

According to a 2018 Research Nester report, the 3D food printing market is expected to expand at a compound annual the growth rate of 50 percent during the period 2017-2024 and is expected to reach $400 million by 2024. The research suggests that market growth is driven by two main factors: an increased desire for customization and applications from the healthcare sector.

3D Culinary Printing by 3D Systems

Despite the many exciting possibilities of 3D food printing technology, the industry still has challenges to overcome. To print food using the current 3D printer, users must convert their ingredients into a paste. It is the only way the device can manipulate the ingredients. Furthermore, most printers available today are designed for dry and shelf-stable materials, excluding most dairy and protein products that spoil faster. That means every ingredient must be dry otherwise users will have to worry that something could spoil. It is a matter of food safety. And while there is the hype about 3D printed food and the technology in general, it is important to measure expectations. In simple terms, we must continue to consider the health, environmental, and social impacts of food printing.

What do you think about 3D printing of your next meal? Let us know in a comment below or on our Facebook page!