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VOL. 11, ISSUE 1 (2026)
From academic curiosity to industrial reality: A detailed bibliometric analysis of the growth in research on 4D Food Printing
Authors
José A Téllez-Morales
Abstract
4D food printing represents an evolution in
additive manufacturing that integrates the temporal dimension, allowing
products to change shape, color, or flavor in response to predetermined
external stimuli. A detailed bibliometric analysis was conducted on the growth of
research in this field. The results reveal an exponential increase in
scientific output since 2020, led overwhelmingly by China, Jiangnan University,
and researcher Zhang, M. However, the predominance of review articles (50.9%)
suggests that the field is still in an early stage of theoretical definition
and technological exploration. Keyword analysis identifies thematic clusters
focused on smart materials (hydrogels), stimulation methods (microwave/pH), and
industrial applications. Despite progress, critical challenges to real-world
adoption remain, including nutrient stability after printing, rheological
limitations of edible inks, and food safety. In conclusion, 4D printing is
rapidly transitioning from an academic curiosity to a potential industrial reality
through interdisciplinary approaches.
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Pages:134-139
How to cite this article:
José A Téllez-Morales "From academic curiosity to industrial reality: A detailed bibliometric analysis of the growth in research on 4D Food Printing". International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, Vol 11, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 134-139
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