Uses of Fungus

Fungi are a group of organisms that includes molds, yeasts, mushrooms, and toadstools. The fungus has a wide variety of uses and is a vital part of the ecosystem.

Fungi have been used as a source of food throughout much of history. A variety of mushrooms are used for cooking such as portabella, oyster, shiitake, and truffles. They add unique flavors and textures to many dishes.

Fungi are often used in the manufacturing of food such as yeast, which is used in the fermentation of fruit juice to produce wine. Yeasts are also used to produce beer and are used in the process of making bread.

Fungi play an important role in producing antibiotics such as penicillin and cyclosporine. These antibiotics are used to combat fungal and bacterial diseases.

Fungi are also used in environmental cleansing as a detoxifying agent. The treatment bioremediation, for instance, uses fungi to detoxify polluted soil and water.

Fungi have been effectively utilized in insect control and to fight roundworm and a range of fungi pathogens and other organisms.