Innovative 3D-Printed Food-Based Systems for Immune Enhancement

About the Project

Recent advances in nutritional science and technological innovation have led to pioneering methods for delivering essential nutrients that the body cannot produce in sufficient amounts, such as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Natural, food-based materials like cacao, honey, and milk, with their complex compositions of polyphenols, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, serve as multifunctional excipients. These materials not only provide nutritional benefits but also enhance drug delivery properties. Furthermore, they can effectively mask the taste of active pharmaceutical ingredients, making medications more palatable, particularly for paediatric and geriatric patients. 3D printing (3DP) plays a key role in promoting sustainability by reducing material waste and energy consumption. By integrating 3DP, production capabilities are not only enhanced but also aligned with environmentally friendly manufacturing practices. This groundbreaking approach has strong potential for adoption in the pharmaceutical industry and can be tailored for implementation in hospitals and local pharmacies. This study aims to investigate the potential of utilizing natural resources, such as cacao and locally sourced raw honey, in the production of 3Dprinted food personalized nutrition formulations. Applications of 3DP nutrition could include personalized diets, specialized food for dysphagia patients, sustainable food production, creating space-friendly meals for exploration, and serving as an educational tool. The primary aim is to develop innovative 3D-printed food formulations that are customized for personalized treatment. These formulations will integrate supplements, such as vitamins, focusing on individual health needs and dietary preferences. The project aims to introduce alternative dosage forms, like nutrient-rich edible products, to alleviate pill burden while investigating the viability of sustainable and eco-friendly practices in 3D Food Printing (3DFP).

Briefly describe the training that will be provided through the research project

The techniques that will be used during the project cover a wide-range and include: Computed Tomography (CT), Contact Angle Goniometry (CAG), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Rheology, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Food 3D printing equipment and software, In Vitro Release Studies, and modelling. Transferrable skill training will also include research management, personal effectiveness, communication skills, networking, team working and career management.

Briefly outline the expected impact activities

The PhD student would be encouraged to engage in a variety of impact activities, disseminate the research project findings through public talks, and participate in QUB showcase events. Examples of impact activities includes: Blogs or web articles, Magazine articles, Public lectures, School visits, oral & poster Presentations (at local, national and international conferences), and Publication of scientific papers in peer reviewed journals.

Funding Notes

This project is not funded; applications are welcome from self-funding candidates.

References

3D printing, Antibacterial, Nutrients, Food, supplements, paediatric