:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Scientists-Say-Fungus-Can-Revive-Food-Destined-for-the-Landfill-Would-You-Try-It-04a629ec5552426d9a8791290910f221.jpg "Scientists Say This Fungus Makes Food Waste Edible")
Scientists Say This Fungus Makes Food Waste Edible
Scientists at the University of California, Berkeley, have made a groundbreaking discovery that can revolutionize the way we think about food waste. According to a recent study published in Nature Microbiology, a novel fungus has the ability to transform food waste into delectable desserts and main courses. This breakthrough has significant implications for the food industry and our environment.
Food waste is a major issue that affects the world today. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), one-third of all food produced globally is lost or wasted. This translates to around 1.3 billion tonnes of food per year. Food waste not only has a negative impact on the environment, but it also contributes to hunger and malnutrition around the world.
How Was This Study Conducted & What Does It Suggest?
The researchers behind this study analyzed the genetics of the fungus responsible for making red oncom, a type of fermented food made from soy pulp in Java, Indonesia. They found that Neurospora intermedia was the main fungus responsible for making red oncom. This fungus has the ability to break down cellulose and pectin, two types of fiber found in plants, and make them digestible.
The Fungus in Action
The Neurospora fungus works by breaking down the fiber found in plant waste and creating a nutritious and tasty product. This process takes around 36 hours and does not require any additional processing. The fungus also changes the taste of the plant waste, making it more appealing to consumers.
The researchers took this fungus and applied it to 30 different types of plant waste, including sugar cane bagasse, tomato pomace, almond hulls, and banana peels. They found that the fungus grew and covered the plant waste without producing any toxins.
The Bottom Line
While this fungus has significant potential for reducing food waste, its success also depends on taste. Consumers will need to be willing to try new and innovative food products. The researchers have already tested the fungus with positive results, and the feedback from taste-testers has been overwhelmingly positive.
FAQs
Q: What is this fungus and how does it work?
A: The fungus is Neurospora intermedia, and it breaks down cellulose and pectin found in plant waste to make them digestible and nutritious.
Q: What types of plant waste can this fungus be used with?
A: The fungus can be used with 30 different types of plant waste, including sugar cane bagasse, tomato pomace, almond hulls, and banana peels.
Q: Is this fungus toxic?
A: No, the fungus does not produce any toxins.
Q: How long does it take for the fungus to transform plant waste into edible food?
A: The process takes around 36 hours.
Q: What is the next step for this research?
A: The researchers plan to continue testing and refining the fungus, with the goal of developing it into a commercial product.
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