![]() In 2014, a boy received a 3D-printed prosthetic hand from engineers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. While 3D printers can seem ultra-futuristic to some, they have been used for a wide variety of reasons for years, even building organs and limbs for patients who need transplants or prosthetics. ![]() However, the researchers hope developing the 3D printing technology can help prevent nutrient degradation while processing foods. While some processed foods could have better taste, texture, cleanliness and shelf lives, processing foods can also degrade their nutrients. Printing food could also help people with swallowing and other digestive disorders, by providing new food options, rather than the bland foods they may be restricted to, the researchers say. They also see sustainability benefits to printing food, because ingredients can be locally sourced, plant-based meals can be created and the shelf life of the foods could be extended. Researchers tried seven different designs and said (e) adding graham cracker walls better supported the entire structure and (f) occasionally, the graham cracker paste would form squiggles due to incorrect z-height or drying of the ingredient. It also reduces human contact with food, which could prevent the spread of food-borne illnesses and diseases. ![]() The researchers say 3D printing food could allow cooks to control the nutrient content in a meal and also offer the ability to make more customized meals. All seven ingredients were stuffed in to the 3D printer and then printed out in layers into the shape of a slice of cheesecake.Īfter seven different designs, the researchers found the construction of the print became similar to that of a home with "floors, walls, and ceilings being the foundation (graham cracker) and inner pools (Nutella and peanut butter) holding softer ingredients within (banana and jelly)." ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |