3D-printed drug delivery system from food waste: A sustainable approach for the development of novel drug delivery systems

Background

3DP has emerged as an innovative technology in various industries, including pharmaceuticals and food. Notably, food waste is a useful resource for 3DP in drug delivery applications, helping to meet sustainability goals by recycling agricultural by-products. This concept is consistent with the circular economy since it uses elements from food waste, such as cellulose and lignin, to make bio-inks that may be used to fabricate customised drug delivery systems.

Aim

The study investigates the use of food waste-derived biopolymers for developing 3D-printed drug delivery systems, addressing both medical and environmental problems.

Discussion

Utilising food waste in 3DP drug delivery systems offers several advantages, including cost savings and reduced environmental effects. Biopolymers made from rice husk, soy protein, and eggshells improve the biodegradability and biocompatibility of pharmaceutical delivery systems. Furthermore, these food-derived biopolymers have intriguing properties such as regulated drug release and compatibility with patient-specific applications. However, there are issues in guaranteeing material consistency and stability, particularly in long-term drug release applications. Copolymerization and mixing with other biocompatible materials have the potential to improve mechanical stability and longevity, both of which are required for efficient drug administration.

Conclusion

Food waste-derived 3D-printed medicine delivery devices are an innovative and sustainable approach to healthcare, but further study is needed to increase scalability and consistency for broad utilization in clinical settings.