Julia Kaisinger & Katharina Unger with Prof. Dr. Han Wösten & Kasia Lukasiewiecz

Fungi Mutarium (Growing Food From Toxic Waste)

In collaboration with Utrecht University, Department of Microbiology

Developing a technology that could transform the 280 million tons of plastic waste we produce annually into edible food

This work responds to the urgent need to revolutionise food production in the next decades to feed a growing and wealthier population while avoiding environmental ruin. The designers propose developing a technology that could transform the 280 million tons of plastic waste we produce annually into edible food.

Scientific research has shown that fungi can degrade toxins while remaining safe to consume. This project combines spores, agar (growth medium) and plastics to kickstart the recycling process. Importantly, the system, which is intended for the home, includes a chemical safety signalling mechanism: a colour change in the liquid medium indicates that all toxins from plastic dyes have been removed. Research and experimentation of this kind is particularly timely, as the design of food is pressured to evolve rapidly in the 21st century.

Post BAD Award

What did BAD Award mean for your practice as a bio-artist or designer?  
Great opportunity to engage with scientist and experience first hand the interesting influence that science can have on art and design and vice versa. Definitely a kickstarter for us to establish ourselves in this field.

What are you working on/doing at the present? 
Bringing our insect farm for the household on the market! Kickstarter campaign this summer!

What do you think is the importance of prizes like BAD Award for art and science? Do you experience pro’s and con’s? 
Public recognition of value of design thinking in science. Sometimes a pity that projects are seen as explorations only and do not always continue.