In 3D printing, a material is extruded through a nozzle and stacked in layers on top of one another where it sets, to form a new final object. This same principle is applied to 3D print edible materials. A paste-like substance is loaded into a syringe. The syringe is precisely emptied through the nozzle to form a 3D object. Intelligent software translates where the nozzle should extrude the paste. Starting from a base layer, subsequent layers are built on this, eventually creating an object of up to 17cm (7in) high.

The main criteria to print 3D printed food is its viscosity. Foods need to be able to move through the syringe and nozzle, and have enough firmness to remain in its printed position. A variety of food types have successfully been 3D printed, including: vegetable and fruit purees, fats, chocolate and chocolate ganache, soya, sugars and more.

Food 3D printing is a 3-step process. First, you design your object using a slicing software such as Simplify 3D. This is an easy-to-master program where various shapes and geomatries can be created, that guide you in the principles of 3D printed objects. Next, the designed object is "sliced". The software intelligently 'slices' your object into layers from its base to top. Lastly, this sliced file is printed - the 3D printer follows these computer 'instructions' to build the object up, layer by layer. FELIXprinters, also offers a design and slicing service, for more information, click here:

The recipes and formulations to either print or replicate meat or salmon is something that FELIXprinters will leave up to the creative minds of our users. We have seen brilliant and delicious creations being developed and we encourage FELIX Food 3D printer users to explore the possibilities.

As with all food preparation appliances, proper care and hygiene should be applied at all times when handing and preparing dishes. Sterile syringes and nozzles should be used when 3D printing and the print surface or plate should be clean to avoid contamination.