3D printing of vegetables wins foodtech competition in Qatar

Two students from Carnegie Mellon University in Qatar have won a Qatar Development Bank foodtech competition with their idea of 3D printing vegetables. Mohammad Fadhel Annan and Lujain Al Mansoori developed the concept to increase food security in Qatar.

Their solution combines artificially grown plant cells with a UV-sensitive bio-printing material to 3D print vegetables such as carrots. In development are specialized printers and an initial prototype of a printed carrot.

According to competition mentor Michael Trick, the creative approach demonstrates the students’ innovation potential. With the prize money of 25,000 Qatar riyals (approx. 6,500 euros), Annan and Al Mansoori now want to develop their idea further. Inclusion in a startup funding program is expected to bring additional support.

3D printing of food is a promising technology for making food production less dependent on agriculture. The winning concept from Qatar highlights the potential of 3D printing to contribute to food security even in regions with little arable land.