Politics

Michelin-starred chefs move to research facilities.

Hamburg-based start-up Infinite Roots confidently believes that mycelium, which is the network of roots for mushrooms, will become a crucial component of future diets.

SymClub
May 12, 2024
2 min read
NewsMushroomsMy-moneyTop gastronomyStart-upResearchFood
Anne-Cathrine Hutz from Infinite Roots wants to make better food from mushrooms
Anne-Cathrine Hutz from Infinite Roots wants to make better food from mushrooms

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Anne-Cathrine Hutz's Portrayal - Michelin-starred chefs move to research facilities.

A group consisting of Anne-Cathrine Hutz (34), Dr. Thibault Godard (38), and Dr. Mazen Rizk (39) has been studying the cultivation and fermentation of mycelium since 2018. This research has led to healthier food alternatives being developed in the labs of a German biotech company, including experimental meats.

As Hutz (who previously worked at a renowned institution) describes, "We aim to improve the quality of food in a sustainable way. We're not trying to take meat away from people, but rather create products that taste similar, are cost-efficient, and are environmentally friendly."

There's something mystical about them: mushrooms in the forest

Hutz goes on, "Production can be completed in just a few days, which significantly reduces the CO2 emissions compared to traditional beef production. It also requires 215 times less water for the same quantity."

Mushroom mycelium is to be turned into a high-quality, tasty steak or fish fillet substitute

The Swedish researcher points out that mushrooms are also a rich source of vitamins. They have a comparatively high amount of protein with relatively low fat and calorie content. There are a variety of essential minerals in mushrooms like zinc, selenium, magnesium, and calcium.

You eat with your eyes: The Nuremberg sausages made from mushroom mycelium look tempting

However, not every mushroom is suitable for creating all types of foods. Hutz explains, "Different mushrooms provide varying tastes, such as that of garlic or the sweetness for sugar substitutes. The array of edible products is vast." Furthermore, the texture and flavors also rely on the specific organic substrates used to feed the mushrooms. "For instance, coffee or bran from grain mills can affect the flavor."

Healthy food: mushrooms are low in fat and calories, but contain valuable vitamins and minerals

Infinite Roots, the company engaged in this research, has attracted high-profile investors such as Dr. Hans Riegel Holding (HRH), a co-owning company of Haribo, Germany's leading food retailer Rewe, and brewery leader Bitburger. These stakeholders are contributing over 50 million euros towards the company's activities.

Although the actual release of these edible mushrooms might take some years, they're anticipated to be available in the German market by 2025. If you wish to try them sooner, you may need to visit South Korea, where some Infinite Roots products are soon to be launched, including a truffle patty.

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Source: symclub.org

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