Exploiting the Biorefinery Potential of Spent Mushroom Substrate: The Time to Do It Is Now

Abstract

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS), the residual material left after mushroom cultivation, represents an abundant yet underutilized bioresource. With global mushroom production generating millions of tons of SMS annually, its disposal constitutes a missed opportunity within the circular bioeconomy. This Opinion article highlights why SMS should be repositioned as a valuable raw material for sustainable biorefineries and outlines the technological, economic, and regulatory steps needed to unlock its potential.