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European Mushroom Boom: Unpacking the Explosive Growth of Mushroom Extracts and Supplements in the EU

Updated: Jul 24


Over the past 18 months, the mushroom extracts and supplements market in the European Union has seen remarkable and continuous growth with a forecasted CAGR of 9.23% from 2024 to 2029, reaching an expected USD 33.31 billion. This surge, driven by a confluence of health, wellness, and sustainability trends, is reshaping consumer preferences and creating new opportunities for innovation and market expansion.


Enter Robin Gurney, founder of Musheez.eu, operating from the depth of a pristine Estonian forest, and with which we dive into the key factors fuelling this mushroom boom and explore the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.



Health, Wellness, and Performance Trends


Consumers across the EU are increasingly gravitating towards natural and plant-based supplements as part of a broader health and wellness movement. Mushrooms, long known for their medicinal properties, perfectly align with this trend. The growing interest in functional foods—products that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition—has led to the incorporation of mushroom extracts into a variety of everyday items like coffees, hot chocolates, snacks, and ready-to-drink beverages. Currently, Lion’s Mane is the superstar of this category, celebrated for its cognitive and overall health benefits, and it’s Novel Food status allowing it to be used as an ingredient in both foods and food supplements, unlike chaga for example.


Scientific research has been pivotal in highlighting the benefits of mushrooms, such as their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and performance-enhancing properties. This growing body of evidence is driving consumer interest and market growth. High-profile endorsements, such as UK celebrity Jeremy Clarkson cultivating Lion’s Mane, have also significantly boosted visibility and demand in the UK and across other European countries.


For more insights on the scientific research behind mushroom supplements, MUSHEEZ does a great job at summarizing a number of important research papers on their blog.



Sustainability and Organic Certification


With eco-consciousness on the rise, consumers are increasingly seeking sustainably sourced and organic products. Mushrooms naturally absorb toxins from their environment, making organic certification critical for ensuring that they are grown in toxin-free settings. This guarantees the purity and safety of mushroom extracts and supplements, boosting consumer confidence. MUSHEEZ's organic certification, recently extended to the end of 2025, underscores their commitment to providing high-quality, safe, and environmentally friendly products.


The market is witnessing a rising interest in a diverse range of mushrooms, each offering unique health benefits. Reishi, Chaga, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps are among the most sought-after, with Cordyceps gaining attention for its potential cognitive and mental health benefits. This mushroom is known for enhancing energy production and oxygen utilization, which can improve mental clarity and mood regulation.


The demand for nootropics—substances that enhance cognitive function—is also fueling interest in mushrooms like Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps. These mushrooms are celebrated for their potential neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Lion’s Mane is particularly known for stimulating nerve growth factor (NGF), essential for neuron growth and maintenance, while Cordyceps enhances ATP production, improving mental stamina and clarity.



Mycelium vs. Fruiting Body Dilemma


A contentious issue in the mushroom supplements industry is the use of mycelium (the vegetative part of the fungus) over the fruiting body (the part widely recognized for its medicinal properties). Mycelium is often cultivated on grain, which can dilute the potency of the extract. Consequently, consumers may experience fewer or no health benefits, leading to dissatisfaction and mistrust of mushroom supplements.


As transparency on this matter is crucial, the FDA Citizen Petition filed by US industry pioneer Nammex, which Musheez has signed in support, addresses this concern. The FDA staff within the Office of Dietary Supplement Programs are evaluating the petition, aiming for a resolution later this year.



Market Dynamics: Target Audiences and Trends


Different demographic groups are driving the demand for mushroom supplements. Older consumers and herbalists focus on health protection and prevention, while younger biohackers seek performance enhancements. Cordyceps, for instance, is popular among athletes for its energy-boosting properties and Lion’s mane among professionals and students for its cognitive benefits.


Despite the market's growth, several negative trends pose risks. The use of mycelium instead of the fruiting body, fillers, and adulteration are significant issues undermining product quality. Price wars can lead to quality compromises, and misleading marketing claims can erode consumer trust. To combat these issues, companies must invest in quality assurance, transparency, and ethical practices.



Regulatory Landscape and Supply Chain Challenges


Navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial for market success. The EU’s stringent regulations on health claims and product labelling demand rigorous scientific backing and clear communication. Mushroom extracts must meet safety standards, including limits on contaminants and proper packaging. Compliance with these regulations ensures market access and consumer trust.


Sourcing high-quality raw materials presents several challenges, including seasonality, limited domestic production, and ensuring contaminant-free mushrooms. Sustainable practices and thorough supplier verification are essential to maintain product quality and availability. MUSHEEZ uses a combination of TRACES and Katana for robust traceability and quality assurance.



The Road Ahead


The EU market for mushroom supplements is brimming with opportunities for innovation. New formulations, such as mushroom-infused beverages and personalized nutrition products, are on the horizon. Musheez’s dual extract method, which eliminates alcohol in the final product and uses only natural preservatives, exemplifies innovative production techniques. Additionally, enhancing bioavailability and targeting niche markets like sports nutrition and mental health present promising areas for growth.


The mushroom extracts and supplements market in the EU is poised for continued growth, driven by consumer demand for natural, health-boosting products. By addressing quality issues, adhering to regulatory standards, and embracing innovation, companies can sustain this growth trajectory.


The mushroom boom is here to stay, and with careful navigation and strategic innovation, the EU market is set to flourish, offering consumers high-quality, effective, and sustainable mushroom supplements.



 

Contributing Author

MUSHEEZ Director Robin Gurney, leads a friendly, tight-knit team whose mission is to be a reliable supplier of high quality, competitively priced, functional mushroom extract products and ingredients to European businesses.


This article is a condensed version of a longer version which Robin gave as input. If you would like to read the full original version, please contact him directly.



[Article published as part of a content partnership with MUSHEEZ]

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