UK-based grocery company Fresh Direct has introduced an innovative new product: mushroom ‘meat’. The new creation offers a healthy alternative at the centre of the plate but also addresses the pressing issue of food waste.

Made from the often-overlooked stalks of mushrooms, which are typically discarded in traditional mushroom processing, this new offering aims to enhance sustainable food production.

In partnership with specialist Irish mushroom grower, Umi Foods, Fresh Direct has embarked on a mission to salvage, prepare and transform surplus mushroom stalks into its mushroom ‘meat’ product.

Ian Nottage, head of food development at Fresh Direct, said: “The texture of the mushroom meat provides a fantastic alternative to more traditional centre-of-plate options. It also has the benefit of avoiding food waste, as it’s made from the unused stalk of the mushroom when it’s harvested. With the fibrous root of the mushroom, there is a natural texture, which gives a satisfying eating appeal. It’s also suitable for vegans as only soya protein, tapioca flour and coconut oil are added to make this really innovative product.”

He continued: “Our chefs have created some fantastic recipes, experimenting with barbecue flavours, perfect for the summer as well as an alternative to pulled pork, which is brilliant in a burger”.

With a minimalist ingredient list comprising solely soya protein, tapioca flour and coconut oil, this product also caters to the growing demand for vegan-friendly alternatives.

Anticipating substantial uptake, the launch of mushroom meat is forecasted to curtail approximately 80 tonnes of food waste annually.

#foodwaste #FreshDirect #mushroom