Assessing the impact of manipulation of fermentation broth of fungal biomass

Researchers from Adamo Foods and the University of Nottingham investigated how nutritional manipulation of fermentation media, specifically the addition of iron (Fe III) and Vitamin B12, impacts the yield, texture, and nutritional profile of fungal mycelium grown for alternative meat applications. Using the INFORS HT Techfors-S pilot bioreactor, the team scaled up production from shake flasks and observed significant increases in bioaccumulation of iron and B12, with up to 97% terephthalic acid yield sustained across multiple cycles. Sensory testing of biomass processed into steaks also revealed changes in texture and flavor, highlighting the importance of bioreactor-based media optimization for developing high-quality, reproducible mycelium-based products.