Mycelium: The Nutrient-Dense, Clean Label Ingredient that’s been here all along
The protein you want. The fiber you need. All in a whole-food, natural, single ingredient.
Mycelium is the all-natural root-like network of fungi that grows in forests around the world. There are thousands of species of fungi and they’ve existed on Earth for 1 billion years. At BMC, we grow a protein- and fiber-packed, whole-food mycelium from a species of fungi known as Neurospora crassa.
Is it a mushroom? Not quite. Mushrooms are the fruiting bodies of some mycelium, but not all fungi species produce fruiting bodies.
Fun fact: Our species of mycelium is not only delicious and nutritious, but humans have been enjoying it in traditional foods for centuries!
A Nutritious Whole Food
Unlike many ingredients that are highly processed or chemically modified, mycelium is a naturally occurring whole food. When we grow Neurospora crassa in our artisanal fermentation system, it naturally forms a dense network of microscopic fibers that create a craveable chew.
When it’s time for us to harvest, the pure mycelium itself is the final product. No fractionation, no isolation, no extrusion—we know we can’t improve upon nature’s own perfect whole structure.
Nutrient-Dense and Sustainable
Our mycelium is remarkably nutrient-rich while remaining low in calories. It naturally contains high levels of protein and dietary fiber, along with other naturally occurring beneficial nutrients such as iron, zinc, and potassium. Unlike animal proteins, which have a heavy footprint on the planet, our mycelium uses a tiny fraction of the resources needed to raise animals for food.
Naturally Common Allergen-Free
Enjoyed by Humans for Centuries
A Superfood for the Future
Neurospora crassa is not only generally recognized as safe by the US FDA, it contains no common allergens like soy, wheat, dairy, eggs, peanuts, or tree nuts. That makes mycelium an unusually versatile ingredient that can help food companies create products suitable for a wide range of consumers, including those following keto, vegan, kosher, and other diets.
Our species of mycelium is anything but new. From China to Indonesia to Africa and Brazil, traditional peoples have long enjoyed fermented Neurospora as an ingredient for centuries.
Natural. Nutrient-dense. Clean label. Allergen-friendly. And rooted in centuries of culinary tradition.
Mycelium from Neurospora crassa brings together the wisdom of traditional fermentation with modern food innovation, creating a delicious, sustainable superfood that both consumers and food companies can feel confident embracing.