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3D Systems has shown off the ChefJet range of 3D printers, which use sugar and chocolate to print food.
The ChefJet and ChefJet Pro can create shapes which traditional methods would struggle to recreate.
The standard ChefJet, which will cost around $5,000 (£3,000), can only print in monochrome, while the ChefJet Pro, which sits at £10,000 (£6,000), can print in “photographic-quality” using multiple colours and materials.
The printing process is similar to that of many plastic 3D printers, which extrude material layer-by-layer onto a base.
Materials that can be used to print by the machines include chocolate and sugar, which can be flavoured with vanilla, mint, sour apple, cherry and watermelon. The printed creation is sprayed with water to crystallise and harden it.
3D Systems said that both the machines were “food-safe”, and envisioned the adoption of the standard model by restaurants and bakeries.
The company is also showcasing 3D printers that can print using ceramic and multi-coloured plastic.
