NASA has awarded $125,000 to NASA researchers for the construction of a food-synthesizer that could be used to 3D print pizza and other foods. The technology could allow astronauts to eat on longer space missions such as to Mars or to other distant destinations.
BeeHex in Texas has already designed a prototype. The machine, which cost around $10,000 to create, can create pizza dough, toppings, and other ingredients in minutes. The company claims that it is faster than a human and requires less energy than traditional ovens.
Quartz reports that the original printer was a 6-month project, funded by a Small Business Innovation Research(SBIR), grant from NASA. The printer was to be used in long-term space flights like a mission towards Mars. The agency was forced to cancel several of its auxiliary projects due to budget cuts by Congress, including the work on the 3D printing printer.
The team decided that the technology should be more easily accessible for everyone on Earth. This decision allowed them to create BeeHex in 2015, which was their first business venture. Their goal is to offer personalized, on-demand pizzas at sporting events and amusement parks using their food printers.
BeeHex has developed a system that can produce customized sandwiches, salads, or breakfast bars. The system would then allow the food to be dispensed and heated in a commercial oven.
This technology could help astronauts avoid the monotony of eating frozen, prepackaged "space food" every day. It would also allow them to eat healthier foods. Additionally, it could cut down on waste and help reduce the environmental impact of a trip to space.
BeeHex claims it is already looking at ways to reuse the technology so restaurants can use it to make baked goods. The company is building a larger machine to print different types of dough, cheese, and sauce simultaneously.
The technology could make pizza more delicious and easier for people who love it. Investors took an interest in the company's potential as a world leader in food printing.
One investor told Quartz, "Pizza is an excellent product for this technology to start with, as it's so simple to make and store." This makes it an ideal product for vending machines. Restaurants and retailers could also use the machine to keep pizza on hand. It is also a good choice for amusement parks or festivals as these venues have limited space and must be able to quickly serve food.
Although this technology is years away from being a viable option for consumers, it is a promising one. 3D printed food can provide a healthier alternative than traditional meals if the ingredients are right. It's also very eco-friendly, and can be easily modified to meet the needs and preferences of vegans and vegetarians.