Many artisans use laser engraving and cutting to create beautifully personalized items, from wooden cutting boards, to glassware, to metal bottle openers, but there are other products that one might not immediately think of when considering laser design – including food.
Some lasers are used for very practical purposes within the food industry, such as etching freshness dates onto fruits and vegetables. Others have a far more creative purpose; for example, crafty epicures have been known to etch a pie or two.
In the video above, holiday pies are given the royal treatment. The designs can be intricate and personal, down to earth or exotic. As with other materials, the pie is inserted directly into the machine, and artwork is sent to the laser. Once the button is pressed, the magic begins.
In addition – and perhaps most importantly – taste is not sacrificed. CO2 lasers are in the infrared frequency range, close to microwaves. The laser uses heat energy, so the pies are just a bit "toasted" where they are exposed to the infrared frequency. Since CO2 laser engraving is similar to cooking with a microwave, it’s not at all dangerous.
Pies aren’t the only delicacy that are benefiting from laser enhancement – tortillas are as well. On Epilog’s Facebook page, one fan posted a video of a tortilla being etched with grooves that simulated those found on a record. And yes, it really did make “music” when placed on a record player.
Etched tortillas. (Image via Epilog Laser)
Creativity knows no boundaries, and the versatility of Epilog laser engravers and cutters meet the challenge of the most demanding artists. From wood, to cork, to metal, or even to food, today's skilled engravers can uniquely express themselves, while attracting a wider potential customer base than ever.
Check out the company’s sample photos page for inspiration, so you can #CreatewithEpilog too.
Here are some other examples of food that has been engraved with Epilog's lasers.
Chocolate Bars. (Image via Epilog Laser)
Pac Man Crackers. (Image via Epilog Laser)
