Fungi as Source for New Bio-based Materials: A Patent Review

This research examines how mushroom-based materials could revolutionize various industries by providing sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based products. Scientists analyzed patents showing how fungal mycelium (mushroom root structure) can be grown into different shapes and materials for use in packaging, car parts, building materials, and more. Impacts on everyday life: • Environmentally friendly packaging materials that decompose naturally instead of polluting landfills • Sustainable car parts that reduce dependence on petroleum-based plastics • Natural building insulation materials that are fire-resistant and biodegradable • New textile materials that could provide alternatives to leather and synthetic fabrics • Reduced waste through use of agricultural byproducts as growing material for fungi