Exploring the potential of 3D-printed texture-modified diets for the management of dysphagia

Abstract

Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder characterized by mild to severe pain during food ingestion. Patients with dysphagia require special care and food that meet the patient’s requirements of nutrition and ease of swallowing which can be achieved by texture-modified diets. Texture modification is important for improving swallow safety and control and preventing aspiration, pneumonia, and choking. 3D printing is the leading technology in today’s era and is widely used for the texture modification of food for patients with swallowing disorders. 3D printing is fast, reliable, and customizable and has the potential to fabricate unappealing and tasteless food into different colours, textures, and shapes. Our discussion brings to review the present and future of 3D printing in preparing texture-modified diets for dysphagia. The challenges associated with dysphagia diets that can be overcome by 3D printing have also been discussed. The review also focuses on the IDDSI framework for determining the suitability of food for dysphagic patients. The key factors such as the material used, and viscosity have been discussed along with various pre-existing literature. The key challenges with the food industry and future research areas have also been discussed.