Mushroom Materials – Market Analysis & Opportunity Assessment, 2014 - 2020

Mushroom materials are developed from agricultural waste and other suitable materials, which are completely biodegradable and free from any volatile organic compound content. These materials are suitable alternatives for plastic and other synthetic-based materials. The manufacturing process of mushroom materials involves mixing agricultural by-products such as woody biomass, husks, cellulosic biomass, and other residual biomass with self-digesting crop residues and other biomaterials. For a few days fungi grows on the mixture, further curing objects or molds to manufacture desired pieces for electronic components, spare parts, and other accessories or components. These materials can be fabricated or molded into boards, having considerable durability and service life, for the furniture industry.

Mushroom materials’ eco-friendly characteristics, easier workability, and lightweight compared to conventional materials, which makes it simpler to transport, are the market drivers for growth of this segment. This material is relatively new in the market, having evolved only over the last decade. Currently, the mushroom materials market is concentrated in North America. However, with increasing awareness among industry players, the adoption of this material is expected to grow in the near future. When the market for mushroom materials reaches mass commercialization, it may exponentially exceed the current growth potential across the globe. It may even outpace the growth of advanced materials that are currently exhibiting growth between 10% and 15% across the globe. Currently, this market has a few players operating at regional or domestic levels. With technological advancements and increasing degree of know-how, more market players are expected to join the competition. Ecovative Design is the only settled player in the mushroom materials market.