Fungamine
FUNGAMIN
The FUNGAMINE project develops new solutions to valorize the biomass generated during the production of fungal protein in bioreactors into high-value products. As the bio- and circular economy expand, fermentation processes produce increasing amounts of nutrient-rich side streams that can be fractionated into both protein and bioactive compounds. FUNGAMINE focuses particularly on the recovery and refinement of polyamines.
Polyamines are small-molecule compounds that play essential roles in cell growth, vitality, and stress tolerance. Their diverse biological functions make them promising ingredients for several sectors:
Animal health and feed: polyamines support gut health and can reduce the need for antibiotics.
Plant biostimulants: they enhance plant stress tolerance and improve growth without additional chemical inputs.
Cosmetics and nutraceuticals: polyamines promote skin regeneration and natural healing effects.
Although the potential of polyamines is well recognized, their large-scale use has remained limited, and industrially scalable production methods have not been available. FUNGAMINE addresses this gap by developing efficient extraction and processing technologies that enable sustainable and cost-effective production of polyamines from fungal biomass.
The project aims to establish a scalable industrial production concept for polyamine-rich fractions derived from fungal fermentation biomass, promote a sustainable and resource-efficient bioeconomy through side-stream valorization, enable new high-value applications in feed, crop cultivation, and cosmetics, and improve the economic profitability of fungal protein production.
FUNGAMINE strengthens Finland’s position as a forerunner in the bio- and circular economy and opens new opportunities for export-ready, natural innovations.
The project brings together a broad consortium of companies in the bio- and circular economy. Enifer BIO provides the Pekilo® mycoprotein platform and industrial biomass streams. Kääpä Biotech specializes in fungal biomass production and the extraction of bioactive compounds. Alltech Fennoaqua contributes expertise in aquaculture and fish nutrition, while Honkajoki Oy focuses on high-quality feed ingredients. Wonderbee develops innovative feed products, particularly for beekeeping.
In plant production, Oksasen puutarha (Greenhouse) provides greenhouse facilities and cultivation expertise, and Rouhiainen Farm enables large-scale field trials. Tracegrow contributes its circular micronutrient expertise to the project.
In cosmetics, Lumene offers strong competence in ingredient development, regulation, and skincare markets.
Together, these companies form a robust industrial ecosystem that supports the development of sustainable, high-value polyamine-based products.
The FUNGAMINE project also aims to scientifically demonstrate the efficacy of polyamine extracts in various applications, thereby creating a solid research foundation for commercial development after the project.
