Since 2018, the team at Sawubona Mycelium (www.sawubonamycelium.com), led by co-founders Busi and Neo Moloi, has been pioneering the fermentation of mycelium across more than 30 mushroom strains. This work has laid the foundation for a deep scientific exploration into the potential of mushroom-derived bioactives for both human and animal health.
Over the years, this research has produced a significant volume of raw material and data, supported by advanced analytical techniques including FTIR, HPLC-MS, GC-MS, as well as both in-vitro and in-vivo studies. These investigations have focused on understanding how mushroom bioactives can be harnessed as powerful functional ingredients in modern health and wellness applications.
Unlocking the Power of Beta-Glucans
At the forefront of this work has been the study of mushroom beta-glucans—one of the most important and bioactive components found in fungi. The team has developed and tested multiple beta-glucan derivatives, refining their properties for efficacy, stability, and product development.
A key innovation emerging from this research is CommuneGel™—a unique, naturally derived functional gel produced during the mushroom fermentation process. Often described as a vegan alternative to snail mucin, CommuneGel™ is created through the metabolic activity of mushroom mycelium during fermentation, offering a novel bioactive ingredient for skincare and wellness formulations.
From Research to Real-World Products
Building on years of scientific research and proof-of-concept development, the team has successfully translated laboratory findings into commercial applications.
This led to the establishment of Portfolio 52, a venture designed to bring mushroom-based innovations to market at scale. The first commercial product range under this initiative is bluberyl™ skincare, a scientifically formulated, dermatologically tested, vegan-friendly skincare line built on fermented mushroom bioactives.
Expanding Into Animal Health
In 2026, Portfolio 52 expanded its innovation pipeline into the animal wellness sector with the launch of Turkey Tails & Co™ (follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok). This exciting new range of pet care products is formulated to support healthy skin and coats, while helping to alleviate a variety of common dermatological challenges in pets.
The first product in the range is a beta-glucan-powered soothing gel designed to address different skin conditions, providing gentle yet effective support for pets and peace of mind for their owners.
Feedback from pet owners has been especially rewarding, with many sharing how these products have helped resolve long-standing issues that conventional solutions were unable to address.
A Pipeline of Innovation
At Portfolio 52, the journey is far from complete. The team is actively developing a pipeline of 52 mushroom-derived products, each designed to explore new applications of fungal bioactives across skincare, wellness, and animal health.
This ambitious roadmap reflects a long-term commitment to scientific innovation, sustainable ingredient development, and the commercialization of mushroom biotechnology.
Looking Ahead
From fermentation science to finished products, the work at Sawubona Mycelium and Portfolio 52 represents a growing movement toward nature-based, scientifically validated wellness solutions.
As research continues and new formulations emerge, the goal remains clear: to unlock the full potential of mushroom bioactives and translate them into meaningful, effective products that improve the lives of both people and animals.
