Additive manufacturing has revolutionized the way we design things. This also includes food production. Food-grade filaments are now being commissioned by NASA so that astronauts can enjoy pizza during their space mission. However, you may wonder whether 3D printing is safe for food devices and objects.
Don’t be alarmed! Don’t be alarmed! Food-safe 3D printing is secure, and with the correct techniques, it is already contributing to gastronomy and culinary arts. Read here about the best practices for making food-safe 3D prints.
Food Safe 3D printing: Essential Facts You Need to Know!
Food-Safe PLA is The Most Popular Filament Choice
PLA is a 3D printer filament that is manufactured from plant materials and is compostable. They also have food-safe dyes that help in different food applications. Furthermore, food-safe PLA exhibits better crystallization rates, less warping, and improves heat deflection. This can help you 3D print objects around your home and kitchen. As PLA material is non-corrosive and does not emit harmful substances, you can create personalized designs for maximum productivity and precision.
Food-Grade Filaments is Helping Designers Create New Cuisines
The best thing about 3D printing is that it is customizable. Food designers are using 3D organic structures to create fascinating molds for delicious snacks. For instance, sculpting and molding can be a bit limiting when it comes to making chocolates. The advent of food-safe 3D printing technology has helped many chocolatiers in Belgium produce chocolates in unique geometric shapes. Hence, using 3D printing can help food designers expand their creativity and change customers ’ eating experiences.
3D Printed Kitchen Appliances Are Now a Reality
Whether you are a cooking enthusiast or want cutting-edge baking tools in your kitchen, 3D printed kitchen accessories are the best addition to your home. In the 3D printer food industry, owners and chefs are using customizable cutlery, plates, spice racks, bagel slicer, and many more kitchen gadgets to enhance the eating experience of their customers. Since food-grade filaments are edible and safe for use, they can make complex food preparation and organization tasks a breeze.
Big Players Have Already Adopted Food Safe 3D Printing!
Food giants like PepsiCo and Hershey are already using the technology to enhance their product portfolio. PepsiCo has created prototypes of different shaped and colored potato chips. On the other hand, Hershey is also using them for creating unique candy designs. Even world-renowned pasta giant Barilla is creating customizable pasta dishes to stand out from the competition.
How to Get Started With Food-Safe 3D Printing?
Here are the two ways you can create custom designs and shapes for the food industry using 3D printing!
Food Safe 3D Printing Using SLA 3D Printers
SLA 3D printers have found widespread use in industries that require detailed and precise models. With SLA 3D printers and food-grade filaments, you can create 3D molds or designs that meet your needs. Although, you have to take precautions to ensure that there are no bacteria build-ups and surface is safe for food contact.
Food Safe 3D Printing Using FDM 3D Printers
You can use FDM 3D printers compatible with food-safe filaments such as PLA, ABS, and PETG. As FDM 3D printers have a smooth surface, it is possible to produce food-safe 3D printed parts. However, remember to apply food-safe coatings for the best experience.