Tag: Fungal fermentation

First developed commercially in Japan as a safe alternative to animal-derived gelatin, pullulan is a natural, water-soluble polysaccharide obtained from the fermentation of starch by a unique yeast-like fungus. This fascinating biopolymer is now used in a wide range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to food products.

Traditionally, most commercial glucosamine supplements are derived from the chitin found in shellfish exoskeletons, making them unsuitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. This reliance on marine animal sources is the key reason why glucosamine is not suitable for vegetarians, though modern plant-based options are now available.