Global Functional Mushroom Market Outlook, 2029

Mushrooms have long been a staple in various cuisines worldwide, but in recent years, their popularity has surged beyond the kitchen. With growing interest in plant-based diets, sustainability, and innovative agricultural practices, the mushroom industry has experienced remarkable growth and transformation. From gourmet delicacies to medicinal marvels, mushrooms offer a diverse range of products and opportunities, making them a fascinating subject of exploration. The global mushroom market has been steadily expanding, driven by factors such as increasing consumer awareness of health benefits, rising demand for organic and natural products, and advancements in cultivation techniques.

Edible mushrooms, such as button mushrooms, shiitake, oyster mushrooms, and portobello mushrooms, have been enjoyed for centuries in cuisines around the world. However, the contemporary culinary scene has witnessed a renaissance in mushroom consumption, with chefs and home cooks alike exploring their versatility and unique flavors. One of the key drivers of this trend is the growing interest in plant-based diets. Mushrooms provide a meaty texture and umami flavor that can satisfy even the most discerning palates, making them a popular choice for vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians seeking alternative protein sources.

Additionally, mushrooms are low in calories, fat-free, and packed with nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, further enhancing their appeal to health-conscious consumers. Beyond their culinary appeal, mushrooms have also gained recognition for their medicinal properties. Traditional Chinese medicine has long revered certain mushrooms for their purported health benefits, and modern science is beginning to uncover the therapeutic potential of these fungi.

Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, lion's mane, and cordyceps are being studied for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. They are also being investigated for their potential role in managing conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline. As research in this field continues to evolve, medicinal mushrooms are poised to become increasingly integrated into mainstream healthcare and wellness practices.

According to the research report, the market is anticipated to cross USD 15 Billion by 2029, increasing from USD 9.75 Billion in 2023. The market is expected to grow with 9.07% CAGR by 2024-29. Mushrooms are finding applications in various industries, ranging from agriculture to environmental remediation. Mycelium, the root-like structure of fungi, can be utilized to produce sustainable alternatives to conventional materials such as plastic, foam, and leather. Companies are harnessing the natural properties of mycelium to create biodegradable packaging, insulation materials, and even building structures, offering eco-friendly solutions to pressing environmental challenges.

Furthermore, mushrooms play a crucial role in agroforestry and soil regeneration. Certain species, like oyster mushrooms, are adept at breaking down organic matter and restoring soil fertility, making them valuable allies in sustainable agriculture practices. By cultivating mushrooms alongside crops or in forestry systems, farmers can enhance soil health, reduce waste, and improve overall ecosystem resilience. Functional mushrooms are mushrooms that have health as well as adaptogenic benefits beyond their nutritional value. The global market is expected to exhibit significant growth during the forecast period owing to the rising awareness related to the benefits offered by consuming specialty mushrooms.

The rising inclination of consumers toward functional foods further boosts market growth. Furthermore, increasing industry developments such as R&D activities to expand mushroom applications in different sectors and the launch of new products are influencing global market growth. For instance, in August 2023, Four Sigmatic, a wellness products manufacturing company, launched organic mushroom complex capsules in Calm, Focus, and Memory varieties. These capsules contain lion’s mane mushroom extract, vitamin B12, and L-theanine. The COVID-19 pandemic positively impacted the growth of the global functional mushroom market. This is primarily due to health-conscious consumers' heightened awareness of health and immunity.

Medical mushrooms were observed as a natural way to boost immunity, leading to increased sales of medical mushroom supplements in recent years. The pandemic triggered a growing interest in medicinal mushrooms as a preventive measure against the COVID-19. According to the study published by the Frontiers Journal, Reishi mushroom exhibits antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19.

Market Drivers

• Health and Wellness Trends: Consumers are becoming more health-conscious, seeking out foods that offer both nutritional value and potential health benefits. Mushrooms, with their rich array of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, are well-positioned to meet this demand. As interest in functional foods continues to rise, the mushroom industry stands to benefit from its reputation as a natural source of wellness. The growing popularity of plant-based diets, driven by concerns about animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and personal health, has led to heightened demand for meat alternatives. Mushrooms, with their meaty texture and umami flavor, are increasingly used as substitutes in vegetarian and vegan dishes. This trend is expected to drive the consumption of mushrooms across various demographics, including flexitarians and meat-eaters looking to reduce their meat intake.
• Sustainable Agriculture Practices: With increasing awareness of environmental issues such as climate change, deforestation, and soil degradation, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices. Mushrooms offer several environmentally-friendly solutions, including their ability to grow on agricultural waste products, their role in soil regeneration, and their potential to replace conventional materials with biodegradable alternatives. As sustainability becomes a key priority for consumers, businesses, and policymakers alike, the mushroom industry is poised to play a significant role in shaping the future of agriculture and food production.

Market Challenges

• Climate Change and Environmental Factors: Climate change can have a significant impact on mushroom cultivation, affecting factors such as temperature, humidity, and precipitation levels. Variability in weather patterns may disrupt growing conditions, leading to fluctuations in yield and quality. Additionally, extreme weather events, such as droughts or floods, can pose direct threats to mushroom farms, resulting in crop losses and financial setbacks. Changes in environmental conditions can also affect wild mushroom populations, leading to habitat loss, shifts in species distribution, and increased competition from invasive species. Conservation efforts and sustainable harvesting practices are essential for preserving biodiversity and ensuring the long-term viability of wild mushrooms.
• Pest and Disease Management: Like any agricultural crop, mushrooms are susceptible to pests and diseases that can impact yields and profitability. Common pests include mites, nematodes, and flies, while diseases such as fungal infections and bacterial rots can spread rapidly in mushroom growing environments. Effective pest and disease management strategies, including sanitation practices, biological controls, and integrated pest management approaches, are essential for minimizing losses and maintaining a healthy crop.

Market Trends

• Technological Advancements in Cultivation: Technological innovations, such as automated growing systems, sensor networks, and data analytics, are revolutionizing mushroom cultivation practices. These advancements enable growers to monitor and control key parameters such as temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide levels, optimizing growing conditions for maximum yield and quality. Precision agriculture techniques also facilitate resource efficiency and sustainability, reducing waste and environmental impact. With limited arable land and growing urbanization, there is a growing interest in vertical farming and indoor cultivation systems for mushrooms. These methods offer advantages such as year-round production, space efficiency, and protection from external environmental factors. Vertical farms can be tailored to specific crop requirements, allowing for optimal growing conditions and increased productivity in urban settings.
• Expansion of Medicinal Mushroom Market: As scientific research continues to uncover the medicinal properties of mushrooms, the market for medicinal mushroom products is expanding rapidly. Consumers are seeking out supplements, extracts, and functional foods formulated with medicinal mushrooms for their immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-enhancing effects. Key medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga are gaining popularity for their potential therapeutic applications, driving innovation and investment in this emerging sector.

Reishi mushroom is leading in the functional mushroom market due to its potent therapeutic properties and extensive scientific research backing its health benefits.

Reishi mushroom, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, has emerged as a frontrunner in the functional mushroom market owing to its remarkable medicinal properties and well-documented health benefits. Revered for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine as the "mushroom of immortality," reishi has gained widespread recognition for its ability to support overall health and well-being. Reishi contains a rich array of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, triterpenes, and antioxidants, which contribute to its diverse pharmacological effects. Studies have shown that reishi possesses immunomodulatory properties, enhancing the body's immune response and helping to combat infections and diseases.

Additionally, reishi exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which may contribute to its ability to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and cellular damage. Moreover, reishi has been investigated for its potential role in supporting cardiovascular health, managing diabetes, and promoting liver function. Research suggests that reishi may help lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar levels, and protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and oxidative stress. Furthermore, reishi has shown promise in supporting mental health and cognitive function, with studies indicating its neuroprotective and mood-stabilizing effects.

The popularity of reishi in the functional mushroom market can also be attributed to its versatility and accessibility. Reishi supplements are available in various forms, including capsules, powders, extracts, and teas, making it convenient for consumers to incorporate into their daily routine. Additionally, reishi is considered safe for long-term use, with minimal risk of adverse effects, further enhancing its appeal to health-conscious individuals seeking natural remedies.

Food and beverage (F&B) applications are leading in the functional mushroom market due to their versatility in culinary creations and the growing consumer demand for natural, nutritious ingredients in everyday foods.

The dominance of food and beverage (F&B) applications in the functional mushroom market can be attributed to several factors that highlight their versatility and appeal to consumers seeking natural, nutritious ingredients. Mushrooms, including functional varieties such as reishi, lion's mane, and chaga, offer a unique combination of flavors, textures, and nutritional benefits that make them well-suited for incorporation into a wide range of culinary creations. One of the primary reasons for their prominence in the F&B sector is their adaptability to various cooking techniques and recipes, allowing chefs and food manufacturers to innovate and experiment with mushroom-infused dishes, snacks, and beverages.

Moreover, the growing consumer demand for natural, plant-based ingredients with functional benefits has fueled the popularity of mushrooms in the F&B market. As consumers become increasingly health-conscious and seek out foods that support their well-being, functional mushrooms offer a compelling solution, providing a source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds known for their potential health-promoting properties. Mushrooms can be incorporated into a variety of F&B products, including soups, sauces, salads, snacks, and beverages, allowing manufacturers to enhance the nutritional profile and appeal of their offerings.

The rise of plant-based diets and alternative protein sources has contributed to the expansion of F&B applications for functional mushrooms. Mushrooms, with their meaty texture and umami flavor, serve as a versatile ingredient in vegetarian, vegan, and flexitarian diets, offering a satisfying substitute for meat in a wide range of dishes. As consumers seek out plant-based options that are both nutritious and delicious, mushrooms have emerged as a popular choice for adding depth, flavor, and nutritional value to F&B products, driving growth and innovation in the functional mushroom market.

Asia-Pacific is leading in the functional mushroom market due to its rich cultural heritage of mushroom consumption, traditional medicine practices, and abundant biodiversity of functional mushroom species.

The Asia-Pacific region's prominence in the functional mushroom market can be attributed to a combination of historical, cultural, and environmental factors that have fostered a deep-rooted appreciation for mushrooms and their health benefits. Throughout Asia, mushrooms have been an integral part of culinary traditions for centuries, featuring prominently in various cuisines as both a delicacy and a staple ingredient. This long history of mushroom consumption has created a strong cultural affinity for mushrooms, driving demand for functional varieties prized for their medicinal properties.

Traditional medicine systems such as Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda have long recognized the therapeutic potential of mushrooms and incorporated them into herbal remedies and tonics. Mushrooms such as reishi, lion's mane, and cordyceps have been revered for their purported health benefits, including immune support, cognitive enhancement, and vitality promotion. As these traditional medicine practices continue to influence healthcare and wellness trends in the region, functional mushrooms have gained widespread acceptance and popularity as natural remedies for various health conditions.

Additionally, the Asia-Pacific region boasts a rich biodiversity of functional mushroom species, many of which are native to the region and have been cultivated and consumed for generations. Countries such as China, Japan, and Korea have a long history of mushroom cultivation, with specialized techniques developed over centuries to cultivate high-quality mushrooms for both culinary and medicinal purposes. This abundance of functional mushroom species provides a diverse array of options for consumers and businesses in the region, fueling innovation and growth in the functional mushroom market.

The Asia-Pacific region's dynamic economies, burgeoning middle class, and increasing consumer awareness of health and wellness have further fueled the demand for functional mushrooms. As disposable incomes rise and lifestyles become more health-conscious, consumers are seeking out natural, plant-based ingredients with functional benefits to support their well-being. Functional mushrooms, with their rich nutritional profile and therapeutic properties, are well-positioned to meet this demand, driving expansion and opportunity in the Asia-Pacific functional mushroom market.

• In November 2023, South Mill Champs, a North American grower and provider of fresh and functional mushrooms, has completed the acquisition of World Fresh Produce, a global organization specializing in sourcing fresh produce. This strategic move strengthens South Mill Champs' presence in the produce market, leveraging its mushroom expertise alongside World Fresh Produce's focus on specialty produce items.
• In September 2023, American Rapper & Singer, Wiz Khalifa launched a new brand called MISTERCAP'S, in partnership with Red Light Holland, which promotes healthy living through the use of mushrooms. The brand is marketed as a "mushroom-forward brand promoting healthy living via natural organic mushrooms.
• In August 2023, Applied Food Sciences Inc. (AFS) revealed a strategic collaboration with KÄÄPÄ Biotech, a Finnish company known for its expertise in fungi cultivation and research. This partnership includes AFS making an equity investment and seeks to diversify AFS' predominantly botanical range by incorporating functional mushroom extracts sourced from Nordic cultivation. The objective is to meet the increasing demand in the functional mushroom market through a partnership with a mycology-focused company, ensuring the supply of top-notch ingredients for product formulators.
• In January 2023, Pawse, a pet wellness company, introduced Mighty Mushrooms, a new medical mushroom-based pet product. The new product included USDA Certified Organic extracts made from Chaga, Maitake, Shiitake, Reishi, and Turkey Tail mushroom varieties.

Years considered in this report:

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in the report:

• Functional Mushroom market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By product type:

• Reishi
• Cordyceps
• Lion’s Mane
• Turkey Tail
• Shiitake
• Chaga
• Other Types

By Application:

• Food & beverage
• Personal care
• Pharmaceutical
• Dietary Supplements
• Other

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases.

After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. After this, the analysts made primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once the analysts acquired primary data, they started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the functional mushroom industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.