Mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for their health benefits for centuries. With the increasing popularity of medicinal mushrooms in the modern wellness industry, many people are now exploring the benefits of mushroom extracts and mushroom powders. Although both products are derived from mushrooms, they differ in their processing methods, potency, and effectiveness. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between mushroom extracts and mushroom powders, the differences in quality, and who might use each product.

mushroom extracts

A mushroom extract is a concentrated liquid or powder made from the fruiting bodies, mycelium or spores of mushrooms. Typically, it is obtained through a process of hot water, alcohol, or double extraction, in which the mushrooms are boiled or soaked to extract their beneficial compounds. Mushroom extracts can be made from different species of mushrooms, each with their own unique properties and health benefits. The beneficial compounds in mushroom extracts include beta-glucans, polysaccharides, triterpenoids, ergosterol and other bioactive compounds. According to studies, these compounds have various health benefits, which we are unfortunately not allowed to list due to the “EU Health Claims” regulation. Mushroom extracts are commonly used in traditional healing practices such as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda, as well as in modern natural dietary supplements.

mushroom powder

Mushroom powders are food ingredients made from dried mushrooms that have been ground into a fine powder. The resulting powder contains all of the mushroom's nutrients and active compounds, but in lower concentrations than mushroom extracts. The most commonly used mushrooms for this purpose are shiitake, porcini and button mushrooms, but other varieties such as oyster mushrooms and chanterelles can also be used. Mushroom powders are often used as flavor enhancers in various dishes such as soups, stews, sauces and marinades. It has a savory, umami-rich flavor that can help add depth and complexity to a dish.

The main differences between mushroom powders and mushroom extracts

power

One of the main differences between mushroom extracts and mushroom powders is their potency. Mushroom extracts are more potent than mushroom powders because they are highly concentrated formulations that contain a higher concentration of the mushrooms' active compounds. These include beta-glucans, polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds that have numerous health benefits.

To understand why mushroom extracts are more potent, we need to look at the manufacturing process. One aspect is the amount of mushrooms required. For example, to produce 1 kg of mushroom extract, 15 kg of raw material (mushrooms) are required. The extraction process typically involves several steps including soaking, heating, and evaporating the solvent to leave a concentrated extract. The resulting extract is highly potent and contains a much higher concentration of the active compounds than the raw material or mushroom powder.

solubility

Mushroom powders are typically more soluble than mushroom extracts due to their composition and manufacturing process. Mushroom powders are made by grinding dried mushrooms into a fine powder, while mushroom extracts are made by extracting the active compounds from the mushroom. A major factor that contributes to the solubility of mushroom powders is their particle size. Mushroom powders are ground into very fine particles, which increases their surface area and allows them to dissolve more easily in liquids. In contrast, mushroom extracts are made by dissolving the active compounds from the mushroom in a solvent. Although the solvent can help extract the active compounds from the mushroom, the resulting extract may not be as soluble as mushroom powder due to other non-soluble compounds in the extract.

Price

The price differences between mushroom extracts and mushroom powders can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of mushroom, the quality of the product, and the manufacturing process. In general, mushroom extracts tend to be more expensive than mushroom powders because they are more concentrated and require more processing to extract the beneficial compounds from the mushrooms. The extraction process involves soaking or cooking the mushrooms to extract the active compounds, which can be time-consuming and require specialized equipment. Additionally, the amount of raw material required to produce a small amount of extract is much higher compared to mushroom powders that are simply dried and ground. Another factor that can affect the price difference between mushroom extracts and powders is the quality of the product. High-quality mushroom extracts and powders made from organic, non-GMO mushrooms and tested for purity and potency are more expensive than lower-quality products that may be less potent.

Overall, the price difference between mushroom extracts and powders can vary depending on the type of mushroom, product quality, and manufacturing process. Mushroom extracts are generally more expensive than powders because they offer more concentrated benefits. They are a better option for those looking for a potent supplement. Mushroom powders, on the other hand, are a more cost-effective option for those looking to enrich their meals with mushroom nutrients and flavor.

Should I choose a powder or an extract?

Mushroom extracts are ideal for people who want to take advantage of beneficial ingredients such as beta-glucans in compressed form. Mushroom powders, on the other hand, are a suitable option for those who want to incorporate mushrooms into their everyday diet and add a mushroom flavor to their culinary experience.

What do I get at SHROOMY?

We only offer 100% pure mushroom extracts in practical powder and capsule form. There are no differences in potency between our powdered extracts and capsules. In fact, our capsules contain the same powdered extract, ensuring consistent effectiveness across our product range. Learn more about how to ensure you choose a high-quality mushroom extract.