Story of Infinite Roots: Develops Sustainable Protein Alternatives from Mushroom Mycelium
Story of Infinite Roots:
Founding Vision
Infinite Roots was founded in 2018 by Dr. Mazen Rizk in
Hamburg, Germany. As CEO, Rizk set out to revolutionize the food system by
creating sustainable protein alternatives using mushroom mycelium, combining
nutrition, taste, and environmental responsibility.
Mission and Purpose
The company’s mission is to provide healthy, environmentally
friendly food options for everyone. By leveraging mycelium, the natural “root”
network of fungi, Infinite Roots aims to reduce reliance on conventional
agriculture and create a scalable, resource-efficient food system.
Technology at Core
Infinite Roots uses fermentation technology to grow mycelium
in nutrient-rich tanks. This process mimics natural soil fertility and produces
versatile, protein-rich ingredients that can be tailored to local flavors and
cuisines without unnecessary additives.
Inspired by Nature
The company begins by selecting ideal mushrooms from over
2,300 edible species. The chosen mushrooms are fermented in liquid environments
that replicate natural soil, producing a base that is then infused with
seasonings to create diverse culinary applications.
Addressing Food Challenges
Infinite Roots addresses the problems of monoculture and
industrial livestock farming. Traditional agriculture relies heavily on a few
crops, uses extensive land and water, and generates significant greenhouse gas
emissions. Mycelium-based foods offer a sustainable alternative to reduce these
environmental impacts.
Efficient Production
By growing mycelium on agricultural by-products, Infinite
Roots minimizes resource use while producing a protein-rich staple adaptable to
various dishes. The process is 500 times more land-efficient and 200 times more
water-efficient than cattle farming, reducing CO₂ emissions by 90%.
Expansion and Support
Infinite Roots joined the 2022 EIT Food RisingFoodStars
program, which supported scaling operations, connecting with investors, and
addressing typical startup challenges. This helped accelerate the development
of their fermentation technology and expand their production capacity.
Series B Funding
In January 2024, Infinite Roots raised $58 million in Series
B funding, marking Europe’s largest investment in mycelium-based technology.
Investors include REWE Group, Grey Silo Ventures, and Betagro, providing
resources to scale production and expand market reach.
Strategic Partnerships
The company has partnered with organizations like Bitburger
Brewery in Germany, using brewery by-products as fermentation inputs.
Internationally, Infinite Roots is collaborating with Pulmuone in South Korea
to develop localized protein products, combining technology and consumer
insights.
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Global Vision
Infinite Roots envisions mycelium becoming a mainstream
ingredient in alternative protein markets. Their products aim to replace
conventional meat, dairy, and fish while aligning with local culinary
traditions, helping create a circular and fair food system.
Team and Growth
Since its founding, Infinite Roots has grown to over 60
employees, bringing together experts in food technology, fermentation, and
sustainability. The team is united by the mission to transform the global food
system and make nutritious, sustainable foods accessible worldwide.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Infinite Roots plans to optimize production
to lower costs, expand globally, and integrate their products into everyday
diets. By combining health, sustainability, and taste, the company seeks to
nourish people while protecting the planet for future generations.
Timeline of Infinite Roots
- 2018
– Infinite Roots is founded by Dr. Mazen Rizk in Hamburg, Germany.
- 2018-2020
– Initial development of mycelium fermentation technology and food
prototypes.
- 2022
– Selected for EIT Food RisingFoodStars; partnerships and technology
scaling begin.
- 2022
– Collaboration with Bitburger Brewery to utilize brewing by-products in
fermentation.
- 2022
– Rebranded from Mushlabs to Infinite Roots to reflect growth and
corporate transition.
- 2024
– Raises €58 million ($85.7 million) Series B funding, Europe’s largest
mycelium investment.
- 2024
– Selected for European Innovation Council Accelerator program.
- 2024
– Partners with Pulmuone in South Korea for market expansion.
- 2024-2025
– Technology scaled; production becomes highly efficient and
resource-saving.
- 2025
and beyond – Focus on global expansion, cost optimization, and
mainstream integration of mycelium-based products.
