Fungi as an alternative to produce essential fatty acids

Abstract

Fungi have the ability to produce essential fatty acids of the omega-3 family, what is of great scientific interest, since these microorganisms are capable of developing under varied conditions, making their production a viable alternative. Fatty acids are of great importance in human food due to their beneficial effects to the organism, such as reduction in the development of cardiovascular problems and other chronic-degenerative diseases. Currently, the main food source of omega-3 fatty acids is saltwater fish, but there are concerns about potential health risks, including environmental contaminants, such as some metals, as well as ecological issues related to the extinction of some species. Therefore, interest in the biotechnology area has been increasing with the aim of extracting bioactive compounds from certain fungi species, besides using these species to produce biomass, food, and energy, among others.