A bite closer: Using 3D food printing to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 2, 3, 9 and 17

This commentary paper focuses on four Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG 9), and partnerships for the goals (SDG 17). Each bite of food has the potential to impact on nutrition and well-being, particularly for the older adult aged over 65 years with swallowing disability. Better attention to the shape of the foods presented for consumption may help improve access to food and nutrition through food shaping methods such as 3D food printing. Target objectives across these four SDGs should help to improve the physical and emotional health of older people with swallowing disability who need texture-modified foods.

We discuss the potential for methods to improve food shaping and influence better health outcomes for older people, particularly those with swallowing disability. Texture-modified food should be both nourishing and enjoyable while being safe to swallow without coughing or choking; to improve nutrition, health, and quality of life.

Along with temperature and taste, the shape of texture-modified foods influences the appeal of the food as important elements of food design. The link between the enjoyment of food and nutrition sets the foundation for a good quality of life for older people. 3D food printing, among other food shaping methods, helps establish this link through the creation of nutritious and appealing foods. Applying the targets for SDGs relating to food shaping techniques will involve innovation and collaboration with older people and multiple disciplines.