More than 2 millions 3D printable files can be found today on internet and many of them can be used in the kitchen. But is “food safe” 3D printing really safe?
Check out this very interesting video made by Igor Gaspar from the Szent Istvan University in Hungary.
Spoiler Alert! The video is basically showing that, unless you apply a post-treatment to your print, you should not use it for repeated usage in the kitchen. Even if cleaned, bacteria will develop between the layers created during the printing process. A good option would be to use an epoxy coating or use antibacterial filament… But between the 3D printing process, the epoxy cost and the total time spent on this, it might be better to buy the item. The only thing we would miss is the fun of making your own and customised kitchenware!
The video deals about plastic filaments and not food printing itself. Additive manufacturing of food is being developed by squeezing out food, layer by layer, into three-dimensional objects. A large variety of foods are appropriate candidates, such as chocolate and candy, and flat foods such as crackers, pasta, and pizza. There are many interesting applications for restaurants, the health industry, or even space industry!
For more information on 3DPM services to boost your 3D printing business, feel free to contact us!