Mushrooms: From Space to Your Skin
Fungi Friday's - June 16th, 2023 - Issue #84
Fungi Friday fam,
Welcome back to another issue of Fungi Friday and welcome to the weekend. It’s officially getting hot out here in Iowa, with every day this week having been over 80. I’d say, at least in this part of the country, Summer has officially arrived. And with that arrival, i’m sure much like me, many of you are living your busy lives… so we thank you for continuing to come back, week after week, to read what we have to share about all of the wonderful things about fungi!
In today’s email:
How Mushrooms, Flies, and Microgreens Could Be Grown in Space
Why Truffles Are So Expensive
Mushrooms for Skincare
Iowa Fungi’s Update of the Week
Well we knew it had to be too good to be true, right? Yes… the trailer is now moved, but the next issue at hand is our power source has yet to be turned on. Called the energy company and it looks like they’ll be coming out over the next week though, so hopefully not too much longer. Plan will be to hopefully get down there next week (once this last step is complete) and get going. Like anything in life, we’re rolling with the punches. We’ll have mushrooms sooner or later though, I promise :)
Space Farmers of the Future May Grow Fungi, Flies and Microgreens
In the future, astronauts may be able to grow their own food in space using fungi, flies, and microgreens. A team of researchers from Kernel Deltech developed compact bioreactors that can grow and harvest fungi in microgravity with very limited resources. The resulting gray, protein-packed powder can be transformed into burgerlike and cheeselike bites. Another team, Interstellar Lab, created modular growing cubes that would allow astronaut farmers to individually control each cube's ambient conditions. The cubes can be used to grow massive mushrooms, leafy greens, and black soldier fly larvae. The larvae can be harvested by tumbling down a ramp and pulverized into a protein-rich powder. While the larvae were not offered to the author for sampling, they were able to try some tasty microgreens. These new technologies could help to ensure that astronauts have access to fresh, nutritious food during long-duration space missions.
Here are some additional details from the article:
The Kernel Deltech bioreactors use a process called aeroponics, which allows the fungi to grow suspended in air. This method uses less water and space than traditional hydroponics, which grows plants in a nutrient-rich solution.
The Interstellar Lab growing cubes are made of a lightweight, durable material called Nolux. The cubes are also equipped with LED lights and sensors that monitor the plants' growth.
Black soldier fly larvae are a good source of protein and other nutrients. They are also relatively easy to raise in space, as they do not require a lot of space or resources.
These new technologies are still in the early stages of development, but they have the potential to revolutionize food production in space. With these new methods, astronauts may be able to grow their own fresh, nutritious food on long-duration space missions.
Psychedelic Spotlight
If You Don't Know Why Truffles Are So Expensive, Here's The Reason
Truffles are a type of fungus that grows underground. They are highly prized for their unique flavor and aroma, and can fetch high prices on the market. There are several reasons why truffles are so expensive.
Scarcity: Truffles are a very rare commodity. They only grow under certain conditions, and it can be difficult to find them.
Demand: Truffles are in high demand from chefs and other food connoisseurs. Their unique flavor and aroma make them a popular ingredient in many dishes.
Perishability: Truffles are perishable, and they must be harvested and consumed quickly. This drives up the price, as there is a limited window of time in which they can be sold.
Mystery: Truffles are still somewhat of a mystery to scientists. No one knows exactly how they grow, or what conditions are necessary for their development. This adds to their mystique, and makes them even more desirable.
The high price of truffles has made them a target for counterfeiters. There are many fake truffles on the market, which are often made from other fungi or even wood. To avoid buying a fake truffle, it is important to buy from a reputable source.
Despite their high price, truffles are a popular ingredient in many dishes. They are often used in sauces, risottos, and other Italian dishes. Truffles can also be eaten on their own, as a snack or as part of a cheese plate.
If you are looking for a unique and delicious culinary experience, truffles are a great option. Just be prepared to pay a high price for them!
More Mushroom Mentions
Q&A: Mycologist and evolutionary biologist explains why he's a fan of fungi
Could ‘underground fungi networks’ be the unseen climate champions the world needs?
5 Ways in which mushrooms aid in weight loss along with a simple recipe
Mushrooms are the biggest new skincare trend, but are they just a fad?
Mushrooms are not only delicious, but they can also be beneficial for your skin. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in using mushrooms in skincare products. This is due to the fact that mushrooms contain a number of compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-aging properties.
Some of the most popular mushrooms used in skincare products include:
Reishi mushroom: Reishi mushroom is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help to reduce redness, inflammation, and irritation.
Shiitake mushroom: Shiitake mushroom is a good source of antioxidants. It can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
Maitake mushroom: Maitake mushroom is known for its anti-aging properties. It can help to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Cordyceps mushroom: Cordyceps mushroom is a good source of antioxidants and can help to boost the immune system.
Mushroom skincare products are available in a variety of forms, including creams, serums, masks, and cleansers. When choosing a mushroom skincare product, it is important to look for one that is formulated with a high concentration of mushroom extract. You should also patch test the product on a small area of skin before using it on your face.
If you are looking for a natural and effective way to improve your skin health, mushroom skincare products are a great option.
Here are some additional benefits of using mushroom skincare products:
Reduces the appearance of dark spots: Mushrooms contain kojic acid, which is a natural lightening agent that can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Improves skin texture: Mushrooms contain polysaccharides, which are compounds that can help to improve skin texture by plumping up the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Hydrates the skin: Mushrooms contain beta-glucans, which are compounds that can help to hydrate the skin and keep it looking plump and youthful.
Protects the skin from the sun: Mushrooms contain antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by the sun's UV rays.
That’s all, folks… but before we let you go, leave a comment below on how we can make the publication even better! And if you haven’t yet, smash that SUBSCRIBE button below.
Thanks for reading as always,
BowTiedMushroom