Mycelium-based materials

Since their inception, mycelium-based materials, more commonly referred to as mycelium composites, have been explored under diverse niches ranging from experimental to industrial scales. Mycelium, the root-like structure that comprises the main vegetative growth of fungi, has been identified as an ecologically friendly stand-alone / composite substitute to a litany of materials throughout different industries, including but not limited to packaging, design, building, fashion and cosmetics applications. Mycelium composites present a sustainable biodegradable alternative to conventional materials that can convert waste into primary feedstock. Critical perspectives might situate mycelium composites that are inert (dehydrated or baked, limiting its growth) within the field of biomaterials, in contrast to untreated mycelium applications (subject to evolving growth) falling within the field of engineered living materials.