From purposeless residues to biocomposites: A hyphae made connection
Researchers developed eco-friendly packaging materials using mushroom mycelium and agricultural waste from fruit and sugar cane processing. Two native Colombian fungal species were grown on leftover fruit peels and bagasse to create lightweight, biodegradable composites. From just 50 kilograms of fruit peel waste, nearly 1,840 cups can be manufactured, offering a sustainable alternative to plastic packaging that naturally decomposes after use.