The future of food is here.
As per Phys.org, the 3D printed meals could make it to our plates and tables soon. This Performance project funded by EU was presented in Brussels as vision for the future. This project is made for elders who have swallowing and masticating or chewing problems.
The 3 million Euros project developed a nutrition idea for older people who are suffering from dysphagia, which is a result of a stroke or dementia that makes it difficult for them to chew and swallow. Many innovations have been made for this project, from software to show more meal details to attractive packaging.
As of the moment NASA is not the only organization interested about this idea. The concept could be good and a must for Astronauts during their journey to other planets. This however doesn't only apply to space travels but can also be used here on Earth. 3D food printing can stimulate unlimited customized products as well as unique formula for a particular dietary need.
Dysphagia diets are usually pre- mashed or purée based food, this results to loss in appetite and finally lead to malnutrition. The Performance idea replicates only the look of the food but the taste is like real food and it also has everything the patient needs. They explained that 'puréed or pre-mashed and strained food provides the same texture and look with the additional nutrition they need. The specific nutrients each food has is based on the patient's gender, size and deficiencies which can also be adjusted according to the patient's nutritional need to have a well-balanced meal. A German IT company, Sanalogic created an algorithm to make the process fully automated. It keeps track of the status of each patient nutritional need and it automatically enhances the meals every week.
Creating a perfect food clone is the main challenge encountered by the project team. Pascal de Grood, founder and CEO of project partner Foodjet explains that printed pureed food needs to be firm but liquid enough to be dispensed. The printing technology uses jet printing and a gelling agent helps the food have a distinct shape. Every part of the manufacturing is being checked thoroughly and examined.
The Performance project idea is being tested in target market where people had a taste test in care homes last week.
