Until recently, mushrooms were the wheelbarrow of the culinary world: useful, rustic, and familiar tools of the trade that dutifully “carry” the dish’s flavors but get little praise, save for the pungent and pricy punch of black truffle. Sliced into a salad or sprinkled over a pizza, mushrooms are often an elective accent rather than a crucial ingredient. In the late 20th century mushroom appreciation began to take root in the US. Grilled portabellas became an easy and inexpensive vegan substitute for hamburger patties, while a handful of more adventurous chefs experimented with shiitake, morel, and enoki mushrooms. Today, fungi is enjoying renewed interest due to the potential health benefits linked to some varieties. Adaptogenic mushrooms have ushered in a new era of food and beverage innovation as consumers seek dietary solutions for health concerns. Learn how a trio of functional mushrooms – cordyceps, lion’s mane, and reishi – are creating new opportunities in beverage development.
What are adaptogenic mushrooms?
“Adaptogens are herbs, roots and other plant substances (like mushrooms) that help our bodies manage stress and restore balance after a stressful situation” (UCLA Health, 2022). Followers of Eastern medicine have long used adaptogens as part of holistic medical treatments and general wellness programs. In the US these products were often sold as supplements by natural foods stores, homeopathic practitioners, or Asian pharmacies. Surging interest in managing mood and mental health through diet has cast functional ingredients into the spotlight, particularly adaptogenic mushrooms. As the trend towards a “food-as-medicine” approach to wellness goes mainstream, consumer demand for functional beverages is rising. Beverages fortified with adaptogenic mushrooms are becoming especially popular.
Using adaptogenic mushrooms in beverages
Beverages are an excellent vehicle for delivering functional ingredients. They are portable, convenient, refreshing, and can offer more consistent and digestible delivery of active ingredients. Although mushrooms come in a range of colors, flavors, and textures, most have at least a mild woody or meaty flavor. Masking these flavors in lighter beverages, such as citrus sodas or sparkling waters, can be difficult. Beverages with more robust flavor profiles or creamier mouthfeels can help adaptogenic mushrooms integrate more cleanly into the overall taste profile. Coffee, tea, energy drinks, cola, hot chocolate, protein shakes, and botanical mocktails are compatible with the natural flavors of mushrooms. Sometimes, the addition of adaptogenic mushrooms creates a unique flavor complexity that consumers enjoy.
Types of adaptogenic mushrooms
There are quite a few fungi that offer medicinal health benefits (Penicillium, the fungal source of the antbiotic Penicillin, being one of the most noteworthy and efficacious). “The term adaptogenic refers specifically to how a substance may affect the body’s response to stress” (Healthline, 2024). Three adaptogenic mushrooms that are trending today are cordyceps, lion’s mane, and reishi. Let’s have a look at these adaptogens and the beverage categories they work best in.
Cordyceps Mushroom
Cordyceps mushrooms are known for their potential to enhance energy levels and endurance. They are believed to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of cells, leading to improved physical performance and reduced fatigue. These mushrooms may enhance mental and physical stimulation, making them a good choice for coffee beverages and energy drinks.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane mushroom is thought to have neuroprotective properties and may support the nervous system. By promoting nerve growth factor (NGF), it could contribute to cognitive function and mental clarity, aspects important for sustained energy throughout the day. Using lion’s mane in a ready-to-drink tea or soda could mitigate afternoon mental fog and energy slumps.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi mushroom is renowned for its calming and stress-reducing effects. By modulating the body’s stress response, reishi may indirectly support energy levels. Its adaptogenic nature may contribute to a more balanced and sustained release of energy, avoiding the highs and lows associated with stimulants. When added to a mocktail formula, reishi may help mimic the calming effects of alcohol but without the depressant effects.
Flavors for functional beverages
Most flavors require a little (and sometimes more) tweaking to blend well with adaptogens. We custom match our natural flavors to your functional beverages, helping your brand achieve the highest level of consumer satisfaction. Let our beverage engineers and sensory experts help you optimize your formula. Request a flavor sample today!
Food and beverage development services
We hope these ideas help launch your next iconic flavor! Blue Pacific Flavors has been a leader in flavor trends and food and beverage innovation since 1993. Learn more about our product development services in this video.
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