Case study I: Health and wellness applications of 3D printed food

Dietary preferences are shifting toward more nutritious and healthier options with the development of technology, prolonged human life, and increased awareness of quality of life. The nutritional needs of people from different social backgrounds may also vary from each other, and people suffering from digestive disorders are the main group who search for functional foods to tackle malnutrition. The food sector is currently focused on the production of functional foods for specific target populations and novel dietary customization in order to meet personal preferences. Three-dimensional (3D) food printing has great potential in meeting the individual needs of consumers for personalized nutrition. The benefits of 3D food printing to provide individualized diet plans, bespoke shape fabrication, and food waste utilization serve the achievement of some of the global sustainable development goals. The objective of this chapter is to examine some applications of the 3D food printing technology in the context of health and wellness. Several applications of this technology in consideration of the health implications are discussed within categories of (1) food products for people with dysphagia to overcome swallowing disorders and (2) controlling food allergies and intolerances, especially producing gluten-free formulations for celiac patients; (3) evaluation of low-calorie food formulation for diabetic people; and (4) other undernourished groups like people who have sarcopenia and frailty. Regarding well-being perspectives, 3D food printing applications are inspected through (5) customization of food for specific groups such as toddlers and children; (6) preparing high-protein content functional foods; (7) meat analogs enriched with alternative protein resources; (8) low-fat food production; (9) foods fortified with bioactive compounds by valorizing food wastes; and (10) other specific nutritional requirements for the individuals, including astronauts and soldiers during space and military missions. Technological advancements related to food science, food processing, and consumption patterns continue to evolve, and 3D food printing would be an indispensable tool for addressing future prospects; however, upcycling of by-products and food waste is still in its infancy and requires further investigation. Providing personalized diet plans, fabrication of specialized shapes, and food waste utilization potential of 3D food printing enable it to contribute to the achievement of approximately half of the global sustainable development goals.