# Mycoprotein is a food product made using the fungus Fusarium. Describe how mycoprotein is produced on a large scale and explain why it is considered a sustainable source of protein for human consumption.

> Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0) — Topic 8 Use of Biological Resources · Describe and Explain · 5 marks

> Mycoprotein is increasingly used as a meat substitute in products sold in supermarkets. It is produced using the fungus Fusarium venenatum grown in large fermenters. The fungus is rich in protein and can be processed into a food with a fibrous texture similar to meat.

## Mark scheme (5 marks)

1. Fusarium is grown in a fermenter / large-scale vessel with glucose syrup (or other carbohydrate source) as a food / energy source
2. The fermenter conditions are controlled, e.g. temperature, oxygen, pH kept at optimum levels
3. The fungal biomass is harvested and the mycoprotein is purified / processed (e.g. dried / excess nucleic acid removed)
4. It is sustainable because Fusarium can be grown quickly / has a fast growth rate, producing large amounts of protein in a short time
5. It is sustainable because producing mycoprotein uses fewer resources (e.g. less land, water or energy) / causes less environmental damage compared to rearing animals for meat

## Key terms

- [mycoprotein](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/mycoprotein)
- [Fusarium](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/fusarium)
- [sustainable](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/sustainable)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Pearson Edexcel A-Level Biology A (9BI0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Describe and Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/mycoprotein-is-a-food-product-made-db9dd102) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.