27th August 2024 – Derek Sarno, Veganuary Ambassador and chef, has been part of a unique collaboration to transform an ex-chicken farm into a sustainable mushroom-growing operation.
In partnership with Smithy Mushrooms and Derek Sarno, The Little Mushroom Co., a former chicken farm in Norfolk, has completely reinvented itself to become a thriving facility growing mushrooms. This ground-breaking project highlights how farms can be repurposed into more sustainable, plant-based and cruelty-free food systems.
Creating sustainable food solutions
With the support of Harry Irwin and Claire Bullen from The Little Mushroom Co. and the guidance of John Dorrian at Smithy Mushrooms, the project has been created using existing spaces and requires less water, less land and minimal inputs while producing nutrient-rich mushrooms.
Derek Sarno, who is known for his bold and inventive mushroom recipes and cooking techniques, lent his culinary expertise to make this initiative a success. Speaking about the project, he said: “This project is about what we can accomplish when farmers, chefs, and the community come together with a shared goal of sustainability and nutritious food.”
Sarno’s experience with these mushrooms allowed him to see untapped potential. The project connects sustainable farming practices and farmers with flavour, and mushrooms are a game-changing ingredient for restaurant menus, retail shelves and home kitchens.
“I’ve worked with these mushrooms for years and know how they can replace meaty textures in almost every sense, surprising both chefs and home cooks alike,” Sarno explained. “We’re not just swapping chickens for mushrooms; we’re redefining how we farm and cook. And this transformation wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible teamwork behind it.”
The transformation is documented in a 17-minute short film produced by Oh Brother Creative, capturing the farm’s evolution into a sustainable mushroom-growing operation. The film highlights the teamwork and innovation that made this breakthrough possible and is now available to watch on YouTube.
