The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded a $274,956 Project Grant under the NSF Technology, Innovation, and Partnerships (CFDA 47.084) program to Gulf Spore LLC (doing business as Chitovate) to develop a mushroom-derived edible coating for fresh fruits and vegetables. The goal is to create a clear, antimicrobial coating that can double the shelf life of produce, thereby reducing food waste, greenhouse gas emissions, and pressure on water supplies. The project will employ a specific mushroom species with high chitin content and a greener extraction process to produce a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to conventional chitosan coatings. This Phase I SBIR award, effective from August 15, 2024 to March 31, 2025, aims to demonstrate the technical feasibility and commercial potential of the mushroom-based edible coating solution.
Generated 3/4/25, 7:05 AM