Perspectives, analyses, and progress in additive manufacturing of food

Abstract

Additive manufacturing techniques involve various steps and processes to create intricate shapes using edible or non-edible materials. This unique technology relies upon layer-by-layer operation to create an object that is pre-designed and coded with the help of specific software. The major challenges of three-dimensional printing that heavily depend on the material properties and machine capabilities are the ability to get a designed shape with high precision and accuracy, printing speed, and scalability. A critical review discussing the technology implementation from the perspectives of the food industry trends is of great interest, especially to industry professionals and academia. Adapting the technology in the food sector requires a critical view to overcoming technical barriers, which account for the food industry needs and current global challenges. In this regard, the relevant process parameters, the perspectives on food processing and engineering, and the nutritional aspects and culinary practices are considered. This review article discusses the current progress of additive manufacturing of food, the perspectives related to the food industry, and rheology as a tool where nonlinear behaviors are also included to unlock the analysis requirements for specific food groups for broader applications. The rheological methods for the characterization of food inks used in additive manufacturing technologies are critically reviewed, and key parameters are proposed.