Towards Inclusive Gastronomy

This project focuses on the application of 3D food printing within gastronomy, specifically for people with food allergies. More than 230 million people worldwide suffer from food allergies, of which about 500,000 in the Netherlands. Eating in restaurants often involves stress, anxiety and social constraints for this group, partly due to knowledge deficiencies and limited control over food preparation.

3D food printing offers opportunities for customization in the kitchen, but the technology is currently technically complex and therefore not very accessible to chefs. The project explores how this technology can be used to create safe, personalized and flavorful alternatives to allergenic ingredients. For example, parts of a dish can be redesigned, retaining flavor and texture, but without the risky substances.

The researchers are developing and testing a transparent and allergen-free 3D food printer that can be easily incorporated into a professional kitchen. In the process, guidelines, work processes and recipes are established that are in line with chefs' practices. At the same time, tools, methods and design approaches are being explored to make the technology more user-friendly for creative culinary professionals.

The project builds on previous research, which included creating a customer journey with top chefs and testing an initial prototype with allergen-free chocolates. In addition, insights on transparency, trust and communication in the kitchen were gathered in co-creation with people with food allergies.

The goal of the project is to promote the adoption of 3D food printing in creative gastronomy, thereby contributing to healthier and more sustainable food systems. In addition to a working prototype, the project delivers a set of concrete results:

• Guidelines for a transparent, allergen-free tabletop 3D printer
• Tools, methods and approaches for integration into kitchen practices
• A platform with recipes, methods and knowledge for culinary creatives

There will be €108,8212 used as a PPP program grant.