Hershey creates a mouth-watering printer

Consumers who love chocolate may have been waiting for the day someone unveiled a chocolate 3-D printer.Well, thanks to Hershey Co., that day has come.

The company has announced the debut of its 3-D Chocolate Candy Printing exhibit at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, Pa. Consumers who visit the store will have the opportunity to interact with Hershey scientists and the breakthrough technology.

“We are now using 3-D technology to bring Hershey goodness to consumers in unanticipated and exciting ways,” said Will Papa, chief research and development officer at the Hershey Co. “3-D printing gives consumers nearly endless possibilities for personalizing their chocolate, and our exhibit will be their first chance to see 3-D chocolate candy printing in action.”

Visitors to Hershey’s Chocolate World will have the opportunity to witness live 3-D printing, see examples of finished products, interact with a library of 3-D graphics pre-loaded on iPads and be scanned to see what they would look like as a piece of 3-D chocolate.

The company says the 3-D chocolate printer on display at Hershey’s Chocolate World is the most advanced model in operation today.

“We are committed to democratizing 3-D printing, making this game-changing technology accessible and engaging for everyone,” said Chuck Hull, founder and CTO at 3D Systems. “Our partnership with Hershey, the largest producer of quality chocolate in North America and a global leader in chocolate and confections, allows us to create unique, exciting and personalized edible experiences, and this is a great way to showcase the power and possibilities of 3-D printing.”

One of Hershey’s stated goals is to gather knowledge and insights directly from consumers after they experience the interactive exhibit. Through a survey presented on a large touchscreen, consumers will have the opportunity to share their preferences on customization options and product design. This information will influence the final technology and business model for a commercial 3-D chocolate candy printing experience, the company said.

“This exhibit is a great example of co-creation with consumers. They will be instrumental in shaping the future of commercially available 3-D chocolate printing,” Papa said.