3D printed food commercialization: Shanghai restaurant launches edible "Starry Cake"

3D printed food commercialization: Shanghai restaurant launches edible "Starry Cake"

In recent years, 3D printing technology has gradually penetrated from the industrial field to daily life, and the food industry has become one of its latest application scenarios. Recently, a high-end restaurant in Shanghai launched a 3D-printed dessert called "Starry Sky Cake", which quickly became a hot topic on the Internet. This cake not only has a unique shape, but also can customize colors and flavors according to customer needs, marking an important step in the commercialization of 3D printed foods.

1. Background of 3D printing food technology

3D printing food technology makes food of complex shapes by stacking edible materials (such as chocolate, cream, jam, etc.) layer by layer. Compared with traditional baking, 3D printed foods have the following advantages:

2. "Starry Cake" ignited social platforms

The "Starry Sky Cake" launched by a restaurant in Shanghai has quickly become popular due to its unique visual effect and technological sense. The following is its spread data on social platforms:

The highlight of this cake is its "Starry Sky" theme design, which prints patterns such as Galaxy and Nebula through edible pigments and special materials, and combines LED lighting effects to present a dreamy visual experience. Customers can also incorporate their own zodiac signs or names into the cake design, further enhancing the personalization of the product.

3. Market prospects of 3D printed food

According to industry analysis, the global 3D printed food market size is expected to grow from US$230 million in 2023 to US$780 million in 2028, with an annual compound growth rate of 27.6%. The following are the main application scenarios:

4. Consumer feedback and industry challenges

Although 3D printed food concept is novel, consumer feedback is polarized:

Supporters believe that "Starry Cake" represents the innovative direction of the food industry, not only satisfying visual enjoyment, but also providing a unique dining experience. Young consumers especially favor this product that combines technology and food.

Questioners argue that the prices of 3D printed foods are generally high (the price of "Starry Sky Cake" is 588 yuan per piece), and the taste is different from traditional baking. In addition, food safety and long-term health impacts still need further verification.

The challenges faced by the industry mainly include:

• The equipment costs are high, and it is difficult for small catering companies to afford it
• There are limited types of printable ingredients, and the taste development is limited
• Consumer acceptance takes time to cultivate

5. Future development trends

Industry experts predict that with technological advancement and cost reduction, 3D printed food will show the following development trends:

The launch of Shanghai's "Starry Cake" not only provides consumers with a novel catering experience, but also provides reference cases for the digital transformation of the food industry. With the maturity of technology and deepening of market education, 3D printed food is expected to move from niche and high-end to mass consumption, reshaping the future food industry structure.