Veganism has seen an explosion of innovation in recent years, with mushrooms leading the way as one of the most promising raw materials. Renowned for their texture, versatility and nutritional properties, mushrooms are now positioning themselves as a substitute of choice in the vegan food industry.
A trend to suit all diets
In addition to their texture and versatility, mushrooms represent a sustainable and promising source of protein for the future. Mycelium, in particular, is rich in complete protein, containing all the essential amino acids, making it a viable alternative to animal protein. Unlike other plant protein sources, mushrooms are also suitable for a wide variety of diets, including those with religious restrictions or food allergies. Mushrooms are naturally free from gluten, soya, nuts and other common allergens, and are accepted by most religious diets, including halal and kosher. This adaptability, coupled with their impressive nutritional profile, makes mushrooms a key option for feeding a growing global population while respecting diverse cultural and dietary needs.
Reduced ecological impact compared with meat
Mushroom production offers significant ecological advantages over traditional meat farming. Firstly, mushrooms require far fewer resources to grow. They use little water, and can be grown on agricultural by-products such as straw or coffee grounds, which helps to reduce waste. In terms of carbon footprint, mushroom production generates much lower greenhouse gas emissions than animal meat. What’s more, their rapid growth and ability to develop in confined spaces means they can be produced more densely and efficiently, reducing the impact on farmland. These characteristics make mushrooms a sustainable option.
Some of the companies working on the subject
Meati Foods (USA)
Meati Foods is one of the hottest companies in the field, with its flagship product, the ‘Meati Cutlet’, a meat substitute made from mycelium, the root structure of mushrooms. Founded in 2017 and based in Colorado, Meati Foods uses fermentation techniques to grow nutrient-rich mycelium, which is then processed into meat substitutes such as cutlets and steaks. Meati products are available in the US, both online via their website and in-store at selected chains such as Sprouts Farmers Market.
Quorn (UK)
Quorn is a well-established vegetarian and vegan food brand, known for its products based on mycoprotein, an ingredient derived from the fungus Fusarium venenatum. Since its creation in 1985, Quorn has expanded its product range to include vegan alternatives such as chicken nuggets and sausages. The brand is available in several countries, including the UK, Europe, the USA and Australia, and its products can be purchased in most major supermarkets as well as online.
Fable Food Co (Australia)
Based in Australia, Fable Food Co specialises in creating meat substitutes from shiitake mushrooms. The company’s flagship product, ‘Fable Pulled Mushroom’, mimics the texture and taste of shredded meat, while offering the benefits of mushrooms. Fable focuses on whole foods, avoiding ultra-processed ingredients. Their products are available in Australia and New Zealand, both in-store and via meal delivery services such as Marley Spoon.
MycoTechnology (USA)
MycoTechnology, based in Denver, is a pioneering company in the use of mushrooms to create sustainable food solutions. Their flagship product, PureTaste Protein, is a protein derived from mushrooms for use in a variety of vegan foods and beverages. This innovation enables manufacturers to improve the nutritional value of their products while reducing the environmental footprint. Products containing PureTaste Protein are mainly available in the United States, via various food manufacturers.
Atlast Food Co (USA)
Atlast Food Co, another innovative American company, is developing a vegan bacon called “MyBacon”, made from mycelium. The mycelium gives the product a texture similar to that of traditional bacon, while being entirely vegan. Atlast, part of the Ecovative company, aims to revolutionise the alternative meat industry with this innovative product. “MyBacon” is available in several shops in the US and can be purchased online via the company’s website.
Where can I buy these products?
Most of these products are available from major supermarket chains in the USA, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. In addition, most of these companies offer online sales via their own websites or e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and other retailers specialising in vegan products.
