From Waste to Wealth: A Critical Review on Spent Mushroom Substrate

Abstract:

The residual biomass produced following mushroom growing is known as spent mushroom substrate (SMS) and it is produced in significant amounts all over the world. SMS was once thought of as an agricultural waste, but because of its rich organic matter, partially decomposed lignocellulosic chemicals and vital nutrients, it is now acknowledged as a valuable resource. This review provides an overview of SMS's production, nutritional properties, decomposition techniques and numerous applications as well as its benefits, limitations and future prospects. SMS has shown great potential in the production of bioenergy through the creation of biogas and biochar, in environmental remediation for the elimination of contaminants and in agriculture as a soil supplement and compost material. Despite its advantages its large-scale use is constrained by issues like high moisture content, compositional unpredictability and handling concerns.