Chocolate maker Barry Callebaut has unveiled a 3D printing facility for chocolates through its global decoration brand, Mona Lisa.
The Mona Lisa 3D studio is equipped with innovative precision technology that allows printing of thousands of pieces of chocolates while retaining a bespoke, hand-made appearance.
Commenting on the launch, Barry Callebaut's head of gourmet and chief innovation, sustainability and quality officer, Pablo Perversi, said, "Innovation is an important pillar of Barry Callebaut’s proven ‘smart growth’ strategy.
"This technological breakthrough innovation positions the Mona Lisa brand at the forefront of the industry and strengthens Barry Callebaut’s global leadership in decorations."
'The Launch Event'
For the launch event, Mona Lisa teamed up with renowned creative pastry chef, Jordi Roca, and implemented the technology for printing his latest chocolate creation - Flor de Cacao.
Inspired by the cacao fruit, 'Flor de Cacao' represents a cocoa bean that opens up like a cacao flower when in contact with hot chocolate sauce.
Commenting on the new technology, Jordi Roca, said, "This new way of working with chocolate is going to take consumers by surprise, with previously unthinkable shapes produced at scale and with impressive precision.
"I’m usually inspired by the things I can’t do as they represent a creative challenge – but now, thanks to Mona Lisa 3D Studio, I can take my chocolate craftsmanship to the next level. I can imagine any new kind of design and it will come to life."
How It Works
Designers transform a chocolate decoration, crafted by chefs or customers in a specific size and shape, into a digital 3D prototype with samples.
The final product is ready for large-scale production once the prototype is approved.
The technology can be used to design a wide range of products required for making desserts, confectionery, hot drinks, and pastries.
Roll-Out Plans
Initially, Barry Callebaut will roll out the service to chefs and hotels, coffee chains and restaurant establishments in specific European countries.
Van der Valk, a leading hotel chain in the Netherlands, will be the first to avail of the service, the chocolate maker said.
Around 70% of consumers want to try new and exciting chocolate experiences and six out of 10 people want to share it on social media, a recent study by Barry Callebaut has revealed.
The new 3D printing technology will address consumer desires by pushing the boundaries of what is possible aesthetically, the company added.
© 2020 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
