Burritob0t: A 3D Printer That Prepares Edible Burritos in Minutes
Marko Manriquz, a New York University ITP graduate student, developed quite the thesis project – a full-fledged 3D printer that assembles made-to-order burritos via a custom iPhone app. His inspiration for the project came about from his interest in food as an artistic medium. The project, called Burritob0t, shows the emerging potential of 3D printing and how it may eventually affect the fast food market.
Unlike most 3D printers which extrude layer upon layer of plastics (or other materials), the Burritob0t extrudes customizable amounts of Mexican ingredients onto a pre-made tortilla (based on the user’s tastes). The printer uses syringes to push/print the food material just like a normal printer uses ink cartridges. The Burritob0t promotes and explores the use of fabrication technology for culinary, educational, and artistic purposes.
“Burritob0t invites critical questions about the food we regularly consume, particularly in regards to fast food (labor practices, environmental consequences, nutritional value). Mexican fast food is emblematic of the assembly line: it is mass-produced in an era of modern consumables, appropriating a false authenticity. Burritob0t, in turn, aims to encourage dialogue about how and where our food is grown, methods of production, environmental impact, cultural appropriation, and, perhaps most importantly: what our food means to us.” – Marko Manriquz
A Kickstarter campaign to bring the Burritob0t to life will start in July. It all looks great, we’re just wondering how you clean it once you’re done with it. You can read more about the Burritob0t here and check out the video below.