A duo of researchers from Zhejiang University, China, has developed a number of new edible plant-based gel materials that can be used to 3D print meat-like foods.

The 3D printable meat alternatives contain ingredients such as soy protein, pea protein, and wheat gluten, boasting the nutritional value of real meat without the associated health and sustainability costs. Interestingly, the most successful formulations also featured cocoa butter as a component, which is a fat extracted from the cocoa bean.

So why 3D print food in the first place? 3D printing food can give rise to personalized meals, as the technology provides the control necessary to carefully select the amount of protein, sugar, vitamins, and minerals we want in a particular meal. While this may seem unnecessary to the average person living in the 21st century, these capabilities are still useful for those with special dietary requirements, those serving in the armed forces in remote locations, and the elderly.

Read more- https://3dprintingindustry.com/news/researchers-successful-in-3d-printing-new-cocoa-butter-based-meat-substitutes-201180/