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'Ingredients in Focus' is Food Dive's bite-sized column highlighting interesting trends in the ingredients world.
Chaga mushrooms, a fungus rich in antioxidants and plant compounds, are expected to see significant growth over the next decade.
According to Fact.Mr's report, A global market for this ingredient is forming. to Reach It is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% to reach USD 1.05 billion by the end of 2024. It is expected to reach $2.1 billion by 2034.
Chaga mushrooms have been used in Siberia and other parts of Asia for centuries to: Medicines that boost immunity and improve overall health. Mushrooms are enzymes that help treat diabetes and high cholesterol.
Many companies have started using this ingredient in a variety of products, and are marketing its benefits better. Herbal Lodge, Sullivan Street Tea & Spice Company, Birch Boys, and other suppliers on Amazon all offer tea products featuring chaga mushrooms.
Chaga mushrooms also contain several bioactive substances. The report said that medicinal mushroom ingredients are expected to grow further in the coming years, as research is ongoing to confirm their effectiveness through clinical trials.
According to the report, North America and East Asia account for nearly half of global Chaga mushroom sales, and the powdered form is widely preferred and overwhelmingly leads overall product sales, with organic varieties being in wider demand.
Currently, the sports nutrition sector is expected to lead sales of this new ingredient, but more companies are incorporating it into teas as well.
The report said the high cost of this ingredient is expected to be a challenge to its growth. Other challenges include side effects due to excessive consumption, such as allergic reactions. Insulin-dependent consumers are also advised not to consume it.
However, as consumers’ interest in pursuing a healthy lifestyle grows, chaga mushrooms are set to grow in the coming years. In recent years, consumer sentiment towards functional foods has changed, and a positive outlook on personal care has emerged.
Major players in the chaga mushroom-based industry are setting standards to ensure product quality. And they rely on clinical trials to convey health benefits to consumers, with companies like Restorative Botanicals and Hangzhou Muhua Bio-Tech laying the groundwork, according to the report.
