Mushroom mania: Unpacking the trend driving fungi fanaticism
When it comes to global health and food trends, mushrooms are mushrooming in popularity. From meat-free protein alternatives to nootropics, mushrooms are infusing the health world with fungi fanaticism.
Alternative protein
Mushrooms mania among consumers is growing due to their nutritional value and suitability in vegetarian, vegan and flexitarian diets due to their protein content.
As a plant-based protein source that contains all nine amino acids in the mycoprotein, derived from mycelium in the root system, mushrooms have emerged as a popular meat alternative.
The sustainability credentials that accompany mushrooms is another reason environmentally conscious consumers are choosing this plant-based protein option.
Mycoprotein (protein from fungus) requires far less input to produce one calorie for human consumption compared to animal protein. Additionally, mushrooms grow quickly, are high in fibre, low in fat and contain no cholesterol.
The Netherlands-based Innova Market Insights noted the significant rise in fungi consumption since 2018 and named mushrooms an up-and-coming ingredient in 2024.
A super supplement
Due to the health benefits, functional mushroom powders and extracts are also emerging as a growing functional food trend.
Certain mushroom extracts are classified as adaptogens – natural substances that help the body cope with physical, emotional, and environmental stress by promoting balance (homeostasis). They are believed to enhance the body's resistance to stressors and help it recover more quickly.
These potent adaptogenic mushrooms are known for their health benefits and protective properties, supporting stress resilience, immune support and daily energy and vitality.
A natural nootropic
Mushroom extracts like Lion’s Mane also exhibit nootropic properties. Named for its unique shaggy appearance, the mushroom grows in regions in North America, Europe and Asia.
Lion's Mane mushrooms contain various bioactive compounds that may improve the brain’s regenerative function to aid brain cell recovery and potentially offer neuroprotective properties1 while protecting against cognitive decline2, and supporting mental clarity and better sleep.
Available research also suggests a possible benefit on certain measures of memory and cognitive function3 along with improvements in depression and anxiousness4.
Lion's Mane mushrooms are typically included in supplements in the form of an extract. While the research on Lion's Mane is still progressing with larger, more robust studies looking to confirm its effectiveness, the initial results seem to support its use as a natural brain booster and mood regulator.
However, Lion's Mane may interact with certain medications. As such, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before taking any supplement that contains this nootropic ingredient.
References:
- D’Amico R, Salinaro AT, et al. Hericium erinaceus and Coriolus versicolor Modulate Molecular and Biochemical Changes after Traumatic Brain Injury. Antioxidants. 2021;10(6):898.
- Lai PL, Naidu M, Sabaratnam V, Wong KH, David RP, Kuppusamy UR, Abdullah N, Malek SN. Neurotrophic properties of the Lion's mane medicinal mushroom, Hericium erinaceus (Higher Basidiomycetes) from Malaysia. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2013;15(6):539-54. doi: 10.1615/intjmedmushr.v15.i6.30. PMID: 24266378.
- Mori K, Inatomi S, Ouchi K, Azumi Y, Tuchida T. Improving effects of the mushroom Yamabushitake (Hericium erinaceus) on mild cognitive impairment: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res. 2009 Mar;23(3):367-72. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2634. PMID: 18844328.
- Nagano M, Shimizu K, Kondo R, Hayashi C, Sato D, Kitagawa K, Ohnuki K. Reduction of depression and anxiety by 4 weeks Hericium erinaceus intake. Biomed Res. 2010 Aug;31(4):231-7. doi: 10.2220/biomedres.31.231. PMID: 20834180.
