What next for mycoprotein?

Abstract

Mycoprotein is a protein-rich food ingredient derived from cultivated fungal mycelium. Mycoprotein-containing meat imitation food products were first commercialized nearly 40 years ago and have since become a safe, nutritious, and generally well-established vegetarian alternative for consumers wishing to reduce or completely avoid meat consumption. In just the past few years, there has been a notable resurgence in mycoprotein innovation with many new companies developing novel mycoprotein products while also employing a wider range of fungal species as well as cultivation methods. However, questions remain about how successful mycoprotein has been as a novel food ingredient with regard to its sustainability and resilience of production as well as its potential for further market growth globally.