Current trends in additive manufacturing based 4D food printing technology: A review

Four-dimensional food printing (4DFP) is a novel additive manufacturing technique that enables production of edible objects with complicated shapes and specific properties under internal or external stimuli. 4DFP presents unique prospects and research capabilities in developing innovative food materials, customized nutrition, interactive dining experiences, and the customization of flavour and texture. The 4D printed construct may experience colour, shape, flavour, or nutritional quality transformations. The 3D printed materials transform into the 4D printed under the application of a stimuli. The stimuli applied interact with base food materials and stimuli responsive/smart materials to make the 4D transformation. This review aims to consolidate the different ingredients used and the stimuli responsive effects occurring in the printed product. The impact of stimuli on textural, nutritional, and sensory properties is analysed at length. The shelf life and consumer acceptance of 4D printed food is also considered in this review. The economic feasibility and commercialization of 4DFP are still uncertain aspects of the technology.