Mycorena has developed a closed-circuit system to produce mycoprotein using algae, as it eyes the top prize in the Deep Space Food Challenge (DSFC).

The Challenge, which is coordinated by NASA and the Canadian Space Agency, seeks to drive the development of innovative food production systems. The competition aims to advance technologies that require minimal inputs and could be employed to produce food for long-term space missions.

Mycorena’s AFCiS, which stands for Algae-Fungi Circular Solution, comprises several modules, including different bioreactors. The fungi grow in the system using limited resources, and the harvested biomass is then 3D printed to create the desired product.

Over the several stages of the challenge, participants had to convince judges of the potential of their technology by submitting designs and plans, before demonstrating the concept to an audience of NASA representatives.

“The harsh conditions of life in space put high demands on food products regarding nutritional requirements and the ability to create a feeling of familiarity and comfort when consumed,” said Kristina Karlsson, head of R&D at Mycorena.

“Being recognised by NASA as one of the finalists in DSFC is an incredible validation of our technology’s resource efficiency and mycoprotein’s outstanding potential as an ingredient for food products.”

Carlos Nunez-Otero, scientist at Mycorena and project manager of the company’s TechMyc research platform, added: “Producing food in space is incredibly challenging, and it’s exciting to see that many companies worldwide are working towards developing innovative food production modules to implement in space travel”.

Out of more than 300 teams, 11 finalists remain, with the winners set to be announced in April.

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