Mushlabs on Fast Company’s List of Next Big Things in Tech

Hamburg, November 17, 2022 — Mushlabs, one of Europe’s leading companies in mycelium fermentation, has been included in Fast Company’s second annual Next Big Things in Tech list. The list highlights technology breakthroughs that promise to shape the future of industries - from agriculture and environment to productivity and artificial intelligence. 83 technologies are included in the list this year, from established companies, startups, and research teams from around the globe. The cutting-edge advancements were selected based on potential to impact consumers, businesses and society overall. While not all of the technological developments are available in the market yet, each one is reaching key milestones in order to have a proven impact in the next five years.

Mushlabs is a young biotech company from Hamburg, Germany, creating the next generation of sustainable food using fermentation and the power of the fungal kingdom. The goal is to build a more sustainable and resilient food system. To achieve this, the company cultivates the mycelium of edible mushrooms in large metal tanks (so-called fermenters). The harvested mycelium is processed in a few steps with a handful of natural ingredients to create delicious substitute products. Fermentation is one of the most efficient and sustainable food production methods worldwide. Thanks to its high controllability, the process only needs a fraction of the ressources and none of the pesticides or fertilizers used for soy and meat production. Mushlabs also developed a technique to utilize agrifood side streams to use as feed for their mycelium. Another benefit: fermenters can be installed and used anywhere in the world. That is why Mushlabs plans to build a decentralized food production system, using local side streams and cooperating with renowned partners to create delicious, sustainable and healthy food products adapted to local habits and demands.

“The food system is out of balance. What we need are inclusive solutions that transform the traditional food system and help consumers to make healthier and more sustainable decisions. Mushlabs can offer the technology to achieve that,” says Dr. Mazen Rizk, founder and CEO of Mushlabs.

“Technology breakthroughs and cutting-edge advancements promise to be the solution to some of the world’s most pressing issues. Fast Company is excited to highlight some of the organizations, of all sizes and industry backgrounds, whose technology advancements today will lead to a better tomorrow,” says Brendan Vaughan, editor-in-chief of Fast Company.

ABOUT MUSHLABS
Mushlabs is a young biotech company based in Hamburg, Germany, producing a new generation of natural and sustainable food by fermenting edible mushroom mycelium. The start-up was founded in Berlin in 2018 by current CEO Dr. Mazen Rizk. Currently, the company is moving into its new headquarters in Hamburg and includes nearly 50 employees from over 20 different countries. The vision: to use the power of mushrooms and biotechnology to build a sustainable food system for a growing global population.

ABOUT FAST COMPANY
Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. The editor-in-chief is Brendan Vaughan. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with sister publication, Inc., and can be found online at fastcompany.com.