Impressão 3D de alimentos baseada em extrusão de tinta comestível contendo probióticos para pacientes idosos com disfagia

Abstract

The elderly population has greater nutritional demand and may present dysphagia. For these patients, pasty foods are often indicated. However, their low attractiveness may cause poor diet adherence. 3D food printing is an innovative tool that can be used to improve the appearance and nutritional content of a meal. Thus, this work aimed to develop and 3D print a vegetable-based ink enriched with probiotics for elderly patients with dysphagia. Initially, we produced a food ink that was composed of potato puree with the addition of probiotics. Next, the ink was used for the 3D printing of meals. Finally, it was evaluated regarding their nutritional and energy value, microorganisms’ viability, texture, and rheological properties. The ink was successfully used to print meals with different designs. The results demonstrate that 100 g of the ink presented 10.71 g of carbohydrates, 1.08 g of proteins, 0.82 g of lipids, and an energy of 54.60 Kcal. Moreover, it has been shown that 100 g of ink presented 3.24 x 107 CFU of lactic acid probiotics after the printing process. The ink texture was adequate and safe for patients with dysphagia level 4 and the addition of probiotics did not affect the rheological characteristics. In conclusion, it was possible to develop a fortified ink that can be used to customize meals that are easy to swallow and visually pleasing.