As the world continues to grapple with climate change and greenhouse gases, brands are constantly pursuing ways to reduce their environmental impact. On the packaging front, companies are on the hunt for natural materials to replace non-biodegradable plastic and polystyrene boxes.
Mushrooms, in particular, show great promise as versatile packaging materials capable of containing goods of all sizes. This article will look at the benefits of mushroom packaging and what makes it stand out from other packaging materials.
What is mushroom packaging?
Mushroom packaging, also known as mushroom mycelium packaging, is derived from the mushroom’s root networks.
These root networks consist of fine threads that can grow into any shape or size with seemingly no limits. As a packaging material, mushroom packaging is lighter, stronger, and cheaper to produce than other fossil fuel-based materials like plastic and polystyrene.
The material was developed and patented by Ecovative, a New York-based company that processes mushrooms into goods like foodstuffs and leather hides. So far, the material has been adopted by global companies, including Ikea and Dell.
How to make mushroom packaging?
Rather than go through a manufacturing process, the mycelium is grown into shape inside custom moulds. To speed up the growth process, they are fed various agricultural wastes from hemp, hurd, and corn husks.
After a few days, the threads spread across the mould. Once they have formed the desired shape, the mycelium is heated to stop the growth process.
Uses of mushroom-based packaging
Mushroom packaging boxes can replace polystyrene in storing heavy items such as computer servers and furniture. They are also perfect for protecting luxury goods until they reach their destination.
Can mushroom packaging be used for food packaging?
Yes, it can. Mushroom packaging is lightweight and easily mouldable, making it an ideal substitute for styrofoam in storing food and beverages. For example, mushroom packaging boxes can protect glass bottles and jars during the shipping process.
Furthermore, mushroom packaging can also be used to store coffee beans due to their similar characteristics to materials like polystyrene and polypropylene.
For companies using mushroom packaging for food, it should be noted that the material has a short lifespan. This makes mushroom packaging less suitable for foodstuffs with longer shelf life or for delivering foods on longer journeys.
What are the benefits of mushroom packaging
One of the main benefits of mushroom-based packaging is that it can be formed into any shape and size. This makes it a versatile packaging material that can be utilized to store and protect various types of goods, even heavier ones like furniture.
Another advantage to mushroom-based packaging is that it comes from a renewable source. Mushrooms require little space, water, and light to grow in large quantities. Plus, agricultural waste that can be used to cultivate mycelium is widely available, making it easy for companies to produce more packaging.
Finally, the material’s lightweight property means less fuel is consumed during shipping and delivery. This translates to increased cost savings from having to make frequent stops at the petrol station.
Is mushroom packaging eco-friendly?
The main standout feature of mushroom packaging is its eco-friendly characteristics. For one, the material is compostable and biodegradable, breaking down within weeks after being buried beneath the soil. Not only will this minimize waste, but the packaging can fertilize the soil due to its natural makeup.
The mushroom plant can also absorb carbon dioxide during the growth process. This can help to lower companies’ carbon footprints and regulate the climate.
What are the disadvantages of mushroom packaging?
While mushroom packaging’s biodegradability can help reduce waste in our environment, it also has a shorter lifespan compared to plastic and polystyrene.
Thus, it may not be ideal for companies that deliver goods at longer distances. Mushroom packaging also does not have the same durability as its fossil fuel-based counterparts, making it a poor choice for containing prepared foods.
Additionally, mushroom packaging is not as widely available as plastics. Increasing mushroom packaging production can be challenging, especially in areas where the climate is not suitable for mushroom and mycelium cultivation. As a result, companies may be more likely to continue using plastics over mushroom packaging despite the latter’s eco-friendliness.
Mushroom packaging cost
Mushroom packaging is cheap to produce, and the raw materials needed to cultivate the mycelium can be acquired at a low cost. This makes it a cost-competitive alternative to some fossil fuel-derived materials.
Is mushroom packaging expensive?
Despite this, mushroom packaging is still more expensive than styrofoam. Thus, the material has mainly been adopted by companies carrying luxury goods such as perfumes and champagnes.
Before making the switch to mushroom packaging, consider your current budget, projected demand, and the average delivery distance.
Concluding remarks
With their easily mouldable and biodegradable fibers, mushrooms can provide a versatile and environmentally friendly solution to packaging and protecting goods. Companies that adopt this material can pave the way for a cleaner and waste-free Earth for future generations.
