Swiss Scientists Pioneer Living Fungal Material Technology

EMPA researchers develop groundbreaking material from edible fungi, offering sustainable alternatives for films, sensors, and food additives.

Swiss researchers at EMPA have developed a new material based on the 'common split-leaf fungus' that remains biologically alive during use.
The new material utilizes the fungal extracellular matrix—a network of molecules and proteins—rather than just processed mycelium fibers.
Practical applications already tested include plastic-like films, moisture sensors, and food emulsifiers.

100%

Biodegradability

Chemical treatments required

"The secret of the new material lies in the fact that it is alive."
— EMPA (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology)

"Instead of laboriously processing the mycelium, they use it as a whole."
— Swissinfo reporting on EMPA methodology

The Age of Living Plastic Arrives

Swiss researchers at EMPA have developed a new material based on the 'common split-leaf fungus' that remains biologically alive during use.
The new material utilizes the fungal extracellular matrix—a network of molecules and proteins—rather than just processed mycelium fibers.
Practical applications already tested include plastic-like films, moisture sensors, and food emulsifiers.

100%

Biodegradability

Chemical treatments required

"The secret of the new material lies in the fact that it is alive."
— EMPA (Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology)

"Instead of laboriously processing the mycelium, they use it as a whole."
— Swissinfo reporting on EMPA methodology