3D printed cacao-based formulations as nutrient carriers for immune system enhancement.

This study explores the feasibility of using raw Greek honey-infused cacao-based formulations for three-dimensional printing (3DP). It evaluates their physicochemical properties, thermal stability, and rheological behaviour. Three honey varieties, one of which was Lavender Honey (LH), were incorporated into cacao printlets to assess their impact on structural integrity and compatibility with Vitamin D3 (VitD3), a bioactive compound known for immune system enhancement. Including honey aims to improve the nutritional profile, enhance the taste, and potentially increase the bioavailability of VitD3, which is limited by its hydrophobic nature and low oral absorption. Thermal analysis showed that honey-infused cacao printlets maintain a liquid-like state under ambient conditions and exhibit stability up to the printing temperature of 38 °C. Rheological assessments demonstrated that both individually and in combination, increased honey concentrations and VitD3 incorporation enhance viscosity. These changes improve printability and structural integrity during 3DP. While raw LH demonstrated antibacterial activity, no antibacterial efficacy was observed in the LH-based printlets after incubation. LH at a 10% concentration emerged as the optimal formulation, demonstrating balanced structural properties and effective miscibility with VitD3. This study highlights how raw Greek honey produced without chemical miticides, has the potential to enhance the functionality and palatability of 3D-printed health supplements. It utilises honey's antimicrobial properties and taste benefits while promoting immune system support through VitD3 integration. The findings highlight the versatility of honey-infused cacao printlets in developing personalized health supplements and pharmaceuticals, suggesting their promising role as delivery systems in personalized medicine. Honeys widely accepted sensory qualities and its application in food products are the basis for the proposition that it enhances palatability. These attributes imply that honey could positively influence the acceptability of the product.