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The Why Factor: The world's ultimate super food

Factual: Science & Nature

11/05/2012 GMT

The world's ultimate super food

BBC World Service - The Why Factor, The world's ultimate super food

The organism that recycles our forests, treats malnutrition, is being turned into foam.

The Rwandan government has launched a publicity drive to persuade more farmers to grow an organism it regards as vital in fighting malnutrition - the mushroom. 

Fungi are an excellent source of proteins, particularly for countries where meat remains expensive - so the Rwanda Agriculture Board is investing millions in training farmers to grow them. 

This week on One Planet, we hear from Rwanda as the humble mushroom is pushed as a practical solution to nutrient poor diets. 

We also head to New York, where two young entrepreneurs are using fungus to create eco-friendly packaging. 

Plus, Mike visits the laboratory of Professor Lynne Boddy, one of the world's leading experts on the mushroom, to learn whether it's our planets most important organism.

As ever, tune in, have a listen and let us know what you think. Email the team at oneplanet@bbc.co.uk, or join us on Facebook, the link's below.

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