Exciting News:
- MycoTechnology, a company specializing in fermented mushroom ingredients, has recently obtained safety approval for a natural flavor enhancer derived from honey truffle. This innovative enhancer has the ability to enhance sweet flavors like caramel while effectively masking any unpleasant tastes.
- ClearHT, the product developed by MycoTechnology, has received the prestigious Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) status from the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association. This recognition is a testament to the safety and quality of the product.
- The product is set to hit the market in early 2026 in countries that acknowledge GRAS certifications. While the U.S. recognizes GRAS determinations, there has been a push from Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to crack down on self-affirmed food safety assessments.
Insightful Information:
ClearHT is designed to enhance the sweetness of food and elevate flavors such as caramel and citrus. It can also intensify the taste of vanilla or tropical flavors while reducing any burnt, unpleasant, or chemical undertones. According to MycoTechnology’s website, even a small amount of this ingredient can significantly alter the flavor profile of food and beverage products.
This innovative product caters to the growing demand for better-for-you ingredients with unique flavors. MycoTechnology’s CEO, Jordi Ferre, expressed that achieving GRAS status is a significant milestone for the company as they continue to expand their ingredients portfolio.
Ferre stated, “Our team has made remarkable progress in scaling up, validating safety, and developing applications for commercial availability. This approval signifies another crucial step in our mission to promote healthier and more flavorful food and beverages.”
Founded in 2013, MycoTechnology utilizes fungi and fermentation technology to produce advanced and healthier food ingredients. The Colorado-based startup has secured $220 million in funding to further develop its mycelium-based platform, with a notable investment from Kellogg’s venture arm Eighteen94 Capital.
Various food companies are embracing the potential of mushrooms to naturally enhance their products. MyForest Foods offers bacon made with mycelium, while Meati provides mycelium-based chicken and steak alternatives.
In response to challenges in the plant-based meat industry, MycoTechnology made the strategic decision to discontinue its alternative-protein business and shift its focus to its sweetening portfolio. The company decided to put on hold plans to produce a fungi-based meat alternative as it concentrates on enhancing flavors and sweeteners, as reported by AgFunder News.