With 3D printing being such a new form of technology, it seems the possibilities are endless. At first, 3D printers only used plastics to print objects. Now, printers are using chocolate, cookie dough, masa (corn meal), and even pureed proteins like chicken and pork! Large companies like Barilla, Hershey, and Mondelez International have realized the potential for printing food and have invested in creating new ways to bring a unique dining experience to the consumer. The new technology promises a multitude of different ways to eat and cook, as shown in this video:
As mentioned before, large companies realize the potential for a completely original product. Barilla, an internationally recognized pasta company, announced a competition for consumers to submit their own pasta CAD files to create a new shape of pasta. The winner will have their pasta file printed by Barilla as one of the first commercially printed pastas! Read more here:http://3dprintingindustry.com/2014/08/22/barilla-launches-3d-printed-pasta-contest-thingarage/
Sometimes we find that older generations do not participate in or benefit from new technologies. However, this is not the case in Germany, where multiple nursing homes are printing food for their residents: http://www.cbsnews.com/news/nursing-homes-in-germany-serve-3d-printed-food/ This article explains how food can be washed and cooked regularly, then pureed to be printed. This allows for elderly who have issues eating solid foods enjoy their meals without sacrificing nutritional value or taste!
Even the US Army has take note of 3D printing food and its capabilities to change the way soldiers make, store, and eat their rations. Researchers are currently finding ways to increase the shelf life of rations, while also customizing rations for specific soldiers who may need certain nutrients.
Speaking of nutrition, check out this article on how 3D printing could make junk foods like doughnuts healthy for you! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/24/3d-printed-food_n_3148598.html
3D Printing has gained popularity through its ability to print new “impossible” shapes, changing the artistic community. This can be done with food now too, printing things that only could come from someone’s imagination. Check out these printed desserts; a chocolate rose and fruit spheres! It is easy to see that the world of 3D printed food is still in the early stages, but sky is the limit and we can’t wait to see what comes next!
Rob, Hannah, and Fabi
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