Ink-jet printers, no longer limited to spitting out simple text documents, are being used nowadays to produce some snazzy images – and even food. Homaru Cantu, a Cordon Bleu chef, modified an ink-jet printer to use inks made of fruits and vegetables, and paper made of soybeans and potatoes. "You can make an ink-jet printer do just about anything," Cantu told New Scientist magazine. After he prints out his edible artwork, he dips it in a tasty powder and bakes, sautés or chills it. He even prints menus for the Moto restaurant in Chicago this way, allowing customers to literally chew over their dining decisions.

– Debra Jones