MYCELIUM - the future of packaging

It's important to us that what we're taking from the earth, we're giving back in full. Here's how our fungi packaging is helping to push our sustainability efforts forward. 

It's estimated that 1.5%-4% of plastic ends up in the ocean with littering, industrial revolution, and single-use plastic packaging largely to blame. This may not seem like an alarming percentage but when you consider the negative impact on our planet and our health, it becomes harder to ignore. 

Single-use plastic breaks down into microplastics, that infiltrate our air, soil, and ocean, eventually entering our food systems. it's crucial that we come up with alternatives and renewable materials like mycelium might just be the solution.  

When looking for an environmentally conscious and effective insert for our safety razors, we came across mycelium (yes, mushrooms!). Invented in 2009 as an earth-friendly alternative to protective packaging like Styrofoam, this innovative material is grown from the vegetative part of fungi (the root system) and organic plant waste. 

why fungi? //

With over 1.5 million varieties, mushrooms are already well known for their versatility in and out of the culinary world. But when it comes to packaging, it's the thread-like, fibrous roots called mycelium that are of use. Mycelium is the network that allows mushrooms to communicate and exchange nutrients, it helps to break down toxins and turn them into available nourishment. 

Mycelium's ability to form a dense network of fibers makes it a strong and durable yet lightweight packaging option. 

the life-cycle of mushroom packaging // 

1/ mycelium grows around clean, organic plant waste in a custom 3D mold. After a few days, it binds together to form a solid shape.

2/ after, 5-7 days it is dried and heat-treated to kill spores and stop the growing process. 

3/ the packaging is then used to protect delicate products whilst they're on the move. 

4/ the fully compostable form can easily be broken up, thrown directly into soil or compost, and will biodegrade in around 40 days. And don't worry - the material will nourish the soil without sprouting any mushrooms! 

a few notes about mycelium packaging  // 

// robust, durable and lightweight

// moisture + fire resistant

// 100% biodegradable alternative to single-use plastic; breaking down into useful nutrients

// by using mycelium's own natural growth power, it requires a small fraction of the energy needed to make plastic or cardboard 

// because it's grown rather than manufactured, it can be molded into almost any shape or form and is infinitely reproducible 

// aside from being good for our planet, mushroom packaging is cost-competitive, high-performing, and has a raw, sculptural look that is so visually interesting   

our safety razor //

We used mycelium packaging as inserts in all of our safety razors. The custom-made mold secures the razor in place reducing potential damage in transit. You can shop all of our razors, here!

the future looks bright  //

An exciting step towards sustainable production, mycelium packaging is just one of the ways fungi can be used for good. There are plenty of innovative creations  utilising mycelium in interesting ways, and here a just a few:

Talinn-based materials company, Myceen produced a series of pendant bell-shaped lampshades made from organic waste materials from the timber and agricultural industry and of course, mycelium. 

Back in 2021, designer Emilie Burfield created a sock sneaker with a durable mycelium sole. The sneaker was made using only 3 renewable materials, meaning it could be industrially composted or taken apart and recycled at the end of its life. 

In collaboration with mycelium leather company Mylo, Lululemon created a meditation and yoga collection that allowed Lululemon to reimagine their existing yoga essentials through a sustainability lens and looked at the future of mycellium in the clothing/wellness industry.