How would you like your steak printed?
Now that’s a question we never thought we would ask… but here we are. The world of 3D-printed food is coming, and although there are still some issues to work out, it won’t be long before this futuristic method hits the mainstream. (The Jetsons would be proud!)
Real-food foodies VS. 3D-printed foodies.
We might all have to take sides soon, and here’s why…
Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) is partnering with Russian firm Bioprinting Solutions to create the world’s first 3D-printed chicken meat. The “bio-printed” meat will (probably) be available for everyone soon.
Of course, KFC is no stranger to experimenting with their food. In 2019, they were the first fast-food chain to test out the popular plant-based Beyond Meat products.
So, how’s this going to work?
Bioprinting Solutions is providing the tech, while KFC is providing the breading/spices to give it their signature taste.
The technology uses animal cells to create meat, but without the hormones or additives that are often used in the meat industry. KFC has high hopes for the project – their goal is for the printed meat to look and taste like the real thing.
Although no animals are harmed during this process, it’s technically not vegetarian. The bio-printing process still uses animal material, so it doesn’t fall under (most) vegetarians’ definition of meat-free.
One huge plus for “meat printing” is that it would lower greenhouse emissions and land use which would help curb the impact of global warming.
But, as tasty and environmentally friendly this all sounds…
There are still a few kinks to work out before you’ll be able to grab a bucket of 3D-printed chicken
This process still has two main hurdles to face – it’s too slow and too costly. And people like to assume that fast food is… well… FAST.
KFC expects the nuggets to be ready for testing this Autumn in Russia. And even though the ingredients are safe, many think it’ll be years before the public will be willing to accept this as part of their regular diets.
Now for the dessert…
3D-printing is frequently used in the dessert world to help print custom orders – from candies to waffles and everything in between.
Last year, world-renown chocolatier Jacques Torres (host of Emmy-nominated series Nailed It!) celebrated “spooky season” by creating custom chocolate bats and pumpkins. He used a printer and a special software blender to create a detailed mold that would shape the Halloween-themed chocolate.
Torres used a mold, rather than actual printing, to maintain the high quality and taste while having it be more efficient and affordable. He hopes that the molding process would help other candy-enthusiasts create elaborate designs but at a low cost.
Alright, you got me – I’m hungry! Where can I eat 3D-printed food?
As of now, the only establishments that are using 3D-printing on the regular are high-end restaurants or giant food manufacturers, mostly because they can afford to do so (a machine can set you back $10K!)
There’s also the aptly titled Food Ink, a series of pop-up “food experiences” currently traveling the globe.
Improvements are still being made to make this accessible for all, of course. So far, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks – it can help the environment, create healthier alternatives, solve famine, and help the homeless. Naturally, only time will tell when it will become a reality.
So, what do you think – would you try out a 3D-printed meal? Do you think it could have any unexpected effects on our health? Will this help solve the world famine issue?
We love hearing your thoughts, so let us know in the comments below!