Can the personal cost of dysphagia on quality of life, participation, and inclusion be reduced through improved food design and 3D food printing? : views of adults with swallowing disability

Introduction: 3D food printing potentially improves mealtime safety and quality of life of people with dysphagia by addressing problems with food shape. The aims of this research were to examine the views of adults with dysphagia on their mealtime-related quality of life and on the potential for 3D food printing to improve mealtime experiences. Materials and methods: Qualitative methods were used to examine the views and experiences of people with dysphagia (n = 7) and some of their supporters (n = 4). As well as being asked six key questions about the impacts of dysphagia, participants were shown a video of the Foodini 3D food printer being used and photos of the foods printed. They were then asked to discuss the usability of 3D food printing and the potential impact on their meals and mealtime-related quality of life. Inductive content coding and narrative analysis were used to identify content themes in the data. Results: Participants reported a negative impact of dysphagia on (a) mealtime-related choice and control, (b) social engagement, (c) food experiences and enjoyment, (d) routines around mealtimes, and (e) physical safety. Participants described ‘‘paying the price’’ regarding time, money, and emotional costs of dysphagia. They viewed that 3D food printing may allow them to be more involved in designing their own texture-modified foods. However, they also identified several usability barriers to using 3D food printers and did not necessarily find the printed foods appealing. Conclusions: People with dysphagia identified multiple impacts on their mealtime-related quality of life which may be addressed by improved access to attractive texture-modified foods. Perceived problems with usability and ambivalence about the attractiveness of the 3D printed food may impede use of this food technology. User-centered co-design of 3D food printers is needed to further the potential for 3D food printing to improve mealtime-related quality of life or mealtime safety.