Australian-based nutrition and research firm Foodiq Global is pushing the boundaries of what mushrooms can do nutritionally and agriculturally. The company recently conducted an experiment growing oyster mushrooms in space aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, marking a significant milestone in the use of fungi as a sustainable crop for future missions.
Named “Mission MushVroom,” the experiment monitored how mushrooms grow in highly contained environments as a durable and nutrient-dense food source for extensive space missions. According to Foodiq Global’s Nutritionist Flavia Fayet-Moore, mushrooms are climate-resilient, highly adaptable, and suited for precision farming.
One of the most exciting aspects of mushrooms is their ability to thrive in high-carbon dioxide environments, such as the International Space Station, and require minimal water and space to flourish. This makes them an ideal crop for a closed-loop agricultural system in space, where controlled environments are necessary.
Mushrooms also have a significant nutritional profile, providing essential vitamins and minerals that can support human health. UV-exposed mushrooms can produce up to 1,000 international units of vitamin D per 100 grams, which is essential for bone health.
The potential for mushrooms to support a circular economy shows promise as a regenerative, sustainable crop beyond nearby space. When used in mushroom compost, agricultural and textile waste can be turned into something new, creating a closed-loop system.
As researchers continue to explore the possibilities of fungi-based crops, it’s clear that mushrooms are poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of space agriculture. With their adaptability, nutritional profile, and potential for sustainability, mushrooms are an exciting area of research that holds promise for both space exploration and human health.
Source: https://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Article/2025/04/22/what-mushrooms-grown-in-space-can-show-us-about-sustainable-farming