Candylicious, a candy store in Dubai, has begun selling what is believed to be the world's first 3D-printed candy on demand.
Additionally, the candies are 100% vegan and gluten - free. Notably, the US is next in line for this "Magic Candy Factory", which will be unveiled this Spring, the date of which is yet unknown.
Candylicious' newly - launched "Magic Candy Factory", debuted on February 29, using two 3D printers, which can "print" customized candies in just minutes.
The factory, which is the brainchild of famous Germany candy maker Katjes, was opened first in a café in Berlin, which could only produce gum. However, the factory in Dubai can produce all kinds of sweets.
A pectin-based, vegan, gluten-free recipe is used as the printing material, flavored by fruit purees like mango, raspberry, blackcurrant, and strawberry, according to The Daily Meal.
Additionally, the machines can also print out a simple sheet of candy paper, which can be used as an edible greetings card. Presently, the machine is being used to produce only gummy candies and no chocolates.
A UK firm is responsible for launching the world's first high - tech treats at the Candylicious store in the Dubai Mall.
Melissa Snover, Managing Director of Katjes Fassin UK Ltd, told 7DAYS, "You get varied tastes and nationalities in Dubai and therefore it was perfect for us to partner with Candylicious. The people of Dubai have a 'sweet tooth' and are always interested in the latest tech innovations - a great place to present the Magic Candy Factory."
"The recipe is especially created to be printed - with all-natural fruit and vegetable extracts to create something natural and delicious. Thus, the taste is not only slightly different... it's even better," Snover continued.
She also mentioned, "To us, it's something special to enjoy from time to time. Nevertheless, the benefit of the experience for the whole family is that children and adults can learn about the technology of 3D printing, ingredients in food and making their own choices - the effect is better levels of knowledge which enhances both lifestyle and health."
However, sweet lovers will need to be satisfied with candies and gums only, as according to Snover, there's no future plan of introducing chocolates.
