Emerging Sustainable Supply Chain Models for 3D Food Printing

Abstract

3D printing technology is rapidly transforming supply chains across diverse manufacturing sectors, enabling personalisation of consumer goods ranging from car parts, medical devices, toys, houses, and even clothing. Food production is also included in the breadth of applications of this expanding technology. Increasing consumer awareness about sustainability, including the problem of food waste, as well as growing interest in customised nutrition have led to the emergence of food industry research focused on aspects, such as packaging, portion size, and healthy sustainable ingredients, to satisfy consumer demands. The growing market for personalised food options in particular, requires increased flexibility and agility to tailor ingredients to an individual’s specific requirements. Such specificity is not easily fulfilled using traditional mass production methods; however, the emerging technology of 3D food printing (3DFP) may be one solution. This paper evaluates the opportunities, risks, and challenges associated with 3DFP, with a focus on developing sustainable supply chains for future growth. Drawing on 12 semi-structured interviews with 3DFP industry managers and current literature in the domain, we propose three supply chain models for 3DFP services, as well as an overview of the key business drivers.

From bytes to bites: Advancing the food industry with three‐dimensional food printing

“…For instance, the generative model allows for order customization down to the level of specific nutritional content versus the selective model where an order is placed for a "standard" 3DPF products, and the customer picks up the order at a centralized 3D food printing center of sorts. Notably, sustainability is integrated into each of the supply model proposed by Rogers and Srivastava (2021) since food production would only be initiated once an order has been placed. The authors also cite the opportunity for food recovery from food service establishments within these supply chain models.…”

“…Nutrition is a critical area of investigation for 3D food printing, as the ability to produce food products with specific macronutrient and micronutrient compositions has significant implications for health and disease prevention (Burke‐Shyne et al., 2020). In addition, 3D food printing can potentially address sustainability goals of the food industry by reducing food waste, energy consumption, and the human footprint associated with extensive agricultural activities through the production of on‐demand and personalized food products (Otcu et al., 2019; Ramundo et al., 2020; Rogers & Srivastava, 2021). Such food products could include “ready‐to‐print” meals that are tailored to individual dietary needs and preferences, specifically for those with food allergies, dietary restrictions, or other health conditions.…”

Three-dimensional food printing: its readiness for a food and nutrition insecure world

“…Dabbene et al (96) discussed and introduced an economic model to adopt 3D food printing in the food sector. Rogers and Srivastava (97) proposed three potential supply chain models for 3D food printing and discussed their key enablers. However, techno-economics and life-cycle assessments for 3D food printing in different settings (e.g.…”

Sustainable supply chain management of automotive sector in context to the circular economy: A strategic framework

“…From the organization's point of view, it is very difficult to monitor if they are following sustainable practices while manufacturing (Mudgal et al, 2010). Lack of government assistance (B3) is related to some government aid or assistance to compete with the other competitors in the initial stages of SSCM implementation (Rogers, 2021). Government policy and legislation were sometimes useful in enforcing the SSCM (Khidir & Zailani, 2009).…”