For the last 30 years, Lieven Vanysacker of the Belgian company, Pleurico, has been working on a system. This system mimics the natural growth of oyster mushrooms and shiitakes as closely as possible. "We have been in full production for about eight years now. We supply organic oyster mushrooms, shiitakes, and home cultivation packs. These are delivered to individuals and the BioPlanet supermarket. We also sell some of our oyster mushrooms at auction," says Lieven.
"The perfect meat substitute"
“We have been growing mushrooms for quite some time. However, we have seen their use increase in recent years. Vegetarianism, veganism, and meat substitution is becoming more popular. Oyster mushroom and shiitake use is, therefore, on the rise. Mushrooms are the perfect meat substitute. That is because they are rich in protein and fiber. They also contain few calories and are low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol. We sell the most mushrooms around Christmas. Last year, we sold a lot more than we usually do."
Shiitakes
Organic
Pleurico's oyster mushrooms' entire production process is organic - from the raw materials purchased to selling the home-cultivated packs. The oyster mushrooms and shiitakes the company sells are also organic. “We produce our own organic substrate. This process differs substantially from the usual method," explains Lieven.
"Our substrate consists of miscanthus and organic straw. These are converted into a protein-rich, healthy soil for the mushrooms. This production process has been developed in such a way as to need no climatization. That means our cultivation process has a minimal impact on the environment."
The home-cultivation packs
The whole production process is organic. However, Vanysacker may not sell his products at auction under an organic label. "Our entire process is designed to put as little a burden on nature as possible. Yet, I am not allowed to market my oyster mushrooms and shiitakes as organic. That is very unfortunate and is not fair."
"There are often double standards. Someone without the correct know-how makes decisions. Exactly the same is currently happening in the political arena. That is why the agricultural sector is often a victim. It suffers under decisions made at European and national level," concludes Lieven.
For more information:
Lieven Vanysacker
Pleurico
18 Knokuil Street
8800 Roeselare, Rumbeke, BE
Tel: +32 (0) 512 01 873
Mob: +32 (0) 473 522 101
Email: lieven.vanysacker@telenet.be
Website: www.pleurico.be