How Kernser Edelpilze is shaping a greener future with mushrooms

How Kernser Edelpilze is creating a more sustainable worldDid you know that behind a small box of mushrooms lies a highly developed scientific ecosystem and a vision for a better future? Nestled in the beautiful Swiss Alps, Kernser Edelpilze is revolutionising agricultural production. They are not only experts in mushroom cultivation, but also pioneers in sustainable development. From recycling waste materials to operating an energy-efficient, modern production facility, this company shows how high-quality food production and environmental protection can go hand in hand.

Sustainability as a mission

Kernser Edelpilze pursues a circular economy model that minimises waste and converts by-products into valuable resources. One of their innovations is to use wood waste with no processing value to produce mushroom substrate. Pressed grain cakes – residues after oil extraction – and grain husks that are unsuitable for food production also provide important nutrients for mushroom cultivation. The wood comes from naturally grown Swiss forests, while the grain husks are sourced from local organic farms. This not only reduces waste disposal, but also ensures that the mushrooms grow in a natural, pollution-free environment. In addition, Kernser Edelpilze works exclusively with solar energy and uses sustainable and ecological packaging with a high proportion of recycled cardboard and water-based labels on the packaging materials.

Ultra-modern, energy-efficient production facility
Kernser Edelpilze operates a state-of-the-art, energy-efficient production facility. Its intelligent climate control system ensures optimal growing conditions for the mushrooms while minimising energy consumption. By continuously monitoring temperature, humidity and CO₂ levels, the system automatically adjusts ventilation and heating, significantly reducing energy waste. In addition, the company uses renewable energy sources such as solar power to supply certain production processes. The company's heating system relies on waste heat recovery technology, which reuses excess heat from production to improve overall energy efficiency. These measures not only reduce production costs, but also significantly reduce CO₂ emissions. Even the workforce is recruited from the local area to minimise emissions from commuting.

Efficient supply chain
To reduce the environmental impact of transportation, Kernser Edelpilze relies on a localised supply chain. Its mushroom farms are located in close proximity to the main sales markets, so that the products reach customers with minimal transportation. This not only ensures that the mushrooms are fresher, but also reduces CO₂ emissions caused by long-distance transport. The company also works closely with Swiss supermarkets and restaurants to provide fresh, high-quality mushrooms and encourage consumers to prioritise local produce – an important step towards more sustainable food consumption.

Innovation and sustainability
Kernser Edelpilze has won numerous awards thanks to its commitment to innovation and sustainability. In 2014, they won the Swiss ‘agroPreis’ for agricultural innovation, making them the first agricultural company to be honoured by the Central Switzerland Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHZ). Their new company building won the 2019 Swiss Baupreis for sustainable energy and state-of-the-art technology for efficient resource use. These accolades not only highlight the company's pioneering role in the industry, but also motivate it to continue researching environmentally friendly and efficient production methods.

Biodegradable plant pots

In addition, the company has developed biodegradable plant pots made from discarded mushroom mycelium through its subsidiary Mycostrat GmbH. Unlike conventional plastic products, these pots are environmentally friendly and decompose naturally after use – a perfect example of sustainability in action.In the future, Kernser Edelpilze plans to further expand its sustainable agricultural practices. This includes developing new mushroom varieties, optimising energy-efficient technologies, and researching further applications for bio-based materials. The company's goal is not only to provide high-quality mushrooms, but also to steer the entire agricultural industry in a technology-oriented, environmentally friendly direction. With its innovative and sustainable production model, Kernser Edelpilze is an impressive example of how agriculture, modern technology and environmental protection can be harmoniously combined.

China Foods Alliance is pleased to offer mushrooms from Kernser Edelpilze as part of the China Foods Roadshow.