Although widely accepted as a tasty and healthy food source for human consumption, mushrooms have long been overlooked as beneficial nutrition for pets. Mushrooms have in fact a lot to offer. Next to being a source of protein, they are known to contain high amounts of selenium, vitamins D and B6, fiber, ergothioneine, spermidine and numerous antioxidants – all of which contribute to a healthy digestion, protection against diseases, and keeping the immune system healthy. Mushrooms also fit with a conscious use of the Earth’s limited resources for pet food.
IQI’s solution FungiBite Fiber is made of king oyster mushrooms, a species known for its favorable meaty texture, high acceptance, and significantly lower CO2 footprint and water consumption as compared to meat. IQI's partner grows the mushrooms for some 5-6 weeks in optimal conditions in an IFS certificated farm located in Austria, on in-house produced growth substrate. Next, the mushroom ‘roots’ (the so-called mycelium or substrate) are harvested and turned into frozen or dried mushroom substrate overgrown with the mycelium of the king oyster mushroom, labeled as FungiBite Fiber. The product, which is delivered frozen or as a dry powder, has a typical high fiber content, strong water binding capacity, and is rich in beta glucans.