Fungal protein and lipids from lignocellulose

This project aims to convert non- edible residues from forestry and agriculture (lignocellulose, i.e. residues of wood and straw) to food and high- value food ingredients.

This will be achieved by first growing edible fungi (Pleurotus spp and Lentinula spp) on selected substrates, with an optimisation towards producing the optimal amounts of mushroom protein (fruiting bodies) and facilitating down-stream extraction and production of bioactives and microbial oil. From the spent mushroom substrate (SMS) bioactive compounds (phenolics, proteins and β-glucans) will be extracted.

After treatment with cellulose- and hemicellulose degrading enzymes, the SMS will be used as substrate for oleaginous yeasts, which will produce oil (which can replace non-sustainable vegetable oil such as palm oil), antioxidants, β-glucans, biosurfactants and exopolysaccharides.

In the course of optimising cultivations both for mushroom production and oleaginous yeasts, the project will provide valuable insights into the physiology of these .

Extraction of bioactive compounds from SMS has not been regarded yet and is, therefore, an important step beyond the state of the art.

The project is approaching important challenges of food supply, including supply of proteins and lipids, as well as decreasing waste production.

It is mainly directed towards the UN- sustainable goals Responsible consumption and production, No hunger and Industry, innovation and infrastructure.