MycoStruct

Mycelium-based Complete Protein Structures for whole-cut scale-up 

*Picture meat cut by Cristian Rojas via pexels (7613432)

MycoStruct develops an innovative fermentation platform to produce structured mycelium-based proteins that replicate the texture, nutrition, and sensory experience of whole-cut meat. By using secondary feedstocks, the project combines industrial biotechnology with circular economy principles to deliver sustainable, high-quality protein with reduced environmental impact.

Europe relies heavily on meat for protein, with 55–60% coming from meat-based sources while sustainable alternatives remain under 1% of the market. Although fungi-based mycoprotein offers a scalable, nutritious, and low-impact solution, its wider adoption is limited by complex production challenges and reliance on non-sustainable feedstocks.

MycoStruct addresses meat alternative challenges by growing structured mycelium in liquid fermentation, achieving whole-cut formats with simple ingredients. This breakthrough avoids ultra-processed food production while delivering superior protein content, exceptional digestibility, and genuine meat-like texture. It uses minimal ingredients without the processing-driven complexity that constrains all existing alternatives.

The process starts with corn-based sugar for early tests, then switches to agricultural by-products such as maize starch cake, potato processing wastes, and alfalfa silage.

ACTIVITIES of Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant

• Screen and evaluate side streams for suitability in mycelium fermentation 
• Develop and optimise pretreatment protocols for heterogeneous feedstocks 
• Pilot-scale fermentation campaigns using second generation feedstocks  

PARTNERS:

• AS TFTAK, EE (Coordinator) 
• Adamo Foods Ltd., UK  
• Technische Universiteit Delft, NL
• Bio Base Europe Pilot Plant, BE  
• Holoss, PT  
• Holoss Research, PT  
• Niras Group ltd, UK  
• Celabor, BE  
• Haute Ecole Specialisée de Suisse Occidentale, CH  
• Fenix TNT SRO, CZ  
• TBW Research GESMBH, AT  
• Bühler AG, CH  
• BFS Group Limited, UK  

SUPPORTED by

The project is supported by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking and its members under the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101292039. The JU receives support from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme and the Bio-based Industries Consortium.  

Disclaimer Art 17.3. Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CBE JU. Neither the European Union, nor CBE JU can be held responsible for them.