As the alternative protein industry continues to grow, innovative companies are trying out new techniques. You’ve heard of the Impossible Burger and Beyond Meat. But how about mushrooms?
How Mushrooms Become Meat
When using mushrooms to create alternative protein, the key is the mycelium, which is the root-like structure of fungi, to make meat.
When fermented with nutrients, the mycelium turns into mycoprotein, a dough-like mass with a texture similar to meat.
Benefits of Mycelium-Based Meat
1. Lower costs
Fermenting mycelium is less costly than most plant-based techniques because it’s more scalable.
2. Eco-friendly
Compared to traditional meat, producing mushroom meat takes up less land and water. The process also leaves a smaller carbon footprint. A study published in Nature found that if 20% of beef was replaced with fungi protein, global deforestation would decrease by a whole 50%.
As a bonus, mycelium is also nutritious, providing essential vitamins and fibre to your diet.
The Leaders in Mycelium Protein
In the US, companies such as MyForest Foods, and Meati are finding success with mushroom meat.
MyForest Foods’s MyBacon, which is mycelium-based bacon, is set to be released in retail stores. They are also opening a mycelium production facility to make as much as 3 million pounds of MyBacon. The company has also partnered with Whitecrest Mushrooms, a Canadian mushroom farm.
Meati specializes in mycelium-based chicken and steak. After recently closing a $150 million Series C funding, they are expanding and rolling out to Sprouts Farmers Market locations in the US. Unlike many other meatless steaks and cutlets, Meati’s mycelium-based options are good for those with wheat or soy allergies.
A Promising Market
Globally, the mycelium market is projected to be valued at $1 billion by 2032. Meanwhile, in 2021, big names in plant-based meat, including Beyond Meat and Maple Leaf Foods, saw lower sales than expected.
As consumers continue to fuel demand for healthy food, ethical food production, and sustainability, mushrooms may be a promising way to keep both people and the planet healthy.
References:
A meaty look into mushrooms and mycelia
https://trellis.net/article/q3-startup-roundup-mushroom-powered-proteins-and-new-wave-fertilizers/
https://vegnews.com/mushroom-brands-fungi-trade-group
