The Máxima Medical Center (MMC) in Veldhoven and the Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital (ETZ) in Tilburg are the first hospitals to offer 3D-printed food. From the puree of fresh vegetables, “new” vegetables are printed, especially for patients with swallowing and chewing problems.
Custom consistency
The two hospitals, together with four other Dutch hospitals and a number of elderly care institutions, are participating in a test with 3D-printed food for six months. In the MMC, the food from the 3D printer is for patients who have undergone surgery for cancer in their head or neck and who need food in a soft consistency for recovery. In elderly care centers, the target group consists mainly of residents who have developed a swallowing disorder due to dementia. For them, it is extra important that the food looks recognizable and tasty, to prevent them from refusing the meals.
Steam, puree, print and freeze
The production of the 3D printed vegetables takes place in a factory in Poortvliet in the province of Zeeland. Here a portion of the vegetables in about 3 minutes, with the shape and taste of the vegetables as they are normally eaten. Before printing, the vegetables are first steamed and pureed. Then flavorings, natural dyes and binders are added. The puree is then printed using extrusion technology and immediately frozen. From the factory, the frozen portions are transported to hospitals and care institutions.
Soft and recognizable
One advantage of 3D printed food is that portion sizes can be precisely determined and adjusted as people can or need to eat more.ture, developed by Gastronologyamong other things, nutritional value, taste, recognisability and a soft consistency that should not stick in the mouth have been taken into account. The range is sold under the brand nameDysphalicousmarketed. The provisional range consists of carrot, beetroot, cauliflower, broccoli, peas, sweet potato, potato and haricot verts. New recipes are being developed, including meat and fish.
Sources: 3D print magazine and Eindhoven Daily Newspaper
