MYCELIUM BIO-COMPOSITES: THE FUTURE OF PACKAGING MATERIALS

Fungi have been used for centuries for a variety of purposes, including as a source of food, medicine, and industrial products. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using fungi strains to obtain novel biomaterials with unique properties that can be used in various applications, including in the field of biotechnology. One example of a fungi strain used for obtaining novel biomaterials is Ganoderma lucidum, also known as the reishi mushroom. This strain has been shown to produce polysaccharides with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have potential applications in the development of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. Aspergillus oryzae strain is widely used in the production of a traditional Japanese seasoning called koji. Koji is used to break down starches and proteins in foods, and it has been found to have a variety of potential health benefits, including improving digestion and boosting the immune system. Fungal mycelium of the mushroom species Schizophyllum commune, which has been used to create a biodegradable packaging material that has properties similar to polystyrene foam. This material is sustainable, compostable, and can be produced using waste products, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional packaging materials. Overall, the use of fungi strains for obtaining novel biomaterials has great potential for the development of new and sustainable materials with unique properties. As research in this area continues to expand, it is likely that we will see even more exciting applications for these versatile organisms