Valencia project develops 3D-printed nutrition for dysphagia patients

The Deglutech project in Valencia is developing a new generation of personalized nutraceutical products designed for individuals with dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing. This condition affects approximately 8% of the Spanish population, primarily the elderly and those with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, or multiple sclerosis.

Using advanced manufacturing and 3D printing technology, the initiative creates oral dissolving films that melt directly in the mouth without the need for water. This approach allows for the customization of textures, flavors, and nutritional content to meet the specific therapeutic needs of each patient, helping to prevent malnutrition and dehydration.

The project is led by Labinderb in collaboration with Multi3DPrint, the Technological Institute of Plastics (AIMPLAS), the Health and Biomedical Research Institute of Alicante (ISABIAL), and the Miguel Hernández University of Elche (UMH). It is funded by Ivace+i Innovación with European FEDER funds.