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Singapore Finc and Huayuan Food Group have entered into a joint venture to construct the “first” US-based edible fungus smart factory in Houston, Texas. The JV aims to produce 50 tons of American enoki mushrooms daily, to help ease the US’ long-term dependence on mushroom imports, as the demand for edible fungi has increased along with healthier eating habits. The smart factory will leverage advanced technical operations for the sustainable development of edible fungus, with operations focused on chemical-free, soilless and environmentally-friendly practices. The collaboration between Singapore Finc – a subsidiary of Shanghai Finc Biotechnology – and Huayuan Food Group, one of the largest Chinese brand operators in the US Asian food market, demonstrates support for the burgeoning mushroom industry and an open attitude to expanding production internationally. The factory is planning to be fully operational one year after construction begins. Despite the growing edible mushroom trend in the US, the country lacks the infrastructure and production technology to grow edible fungi – hence its reliance on mushroom imports, which elevates the price. Finc says that its new smart factory will “alleviate this issue for the US, bringing production to the country and lowering prices”. The market for edible fungi has increased in recent years as biotech studies have shown that mushrooms have the potential to block bitterness, inhibit sugar absorption and produce high-quality plant-based protein. After 20 years of development, Finc has established itself as a “pioneer of factory cultivation of the white jade mushroom and crab mushroom in China,” with the company applying for more than 190 invention and utility model patents. The white jade mushroom and crab mushroom produced by Finc are said to be among the best-selling fresh mushrooms in China and are sold under the Freshmore brand. Finc plans to continue its global expansion by deepening cooperation between enterprises, universities and scientific research institutions, and working together to support the world's edible fungi industry.