Mushroom Gummies: A Step-By-Step Guide To Making Them

Mushroom gummies are made using a gelling agent and dehydrated, powdered mushrooms. They are marketed as a convenient and palatable way to obtain the health benefits associated with mushroom consumption, such as improved cognitive function, increased energy, and reduced stress. However, there have been concerns about the safety of mushroom gummies, with several reports of people falling ill and experiencing adverse effects such as hallucinations and seizures after consuming them. Investigations have revealed that some mushroom gummies contain undisclosed and potentially harmful or illegal ingredients, including psychoactive substances and opioids. The lack of clear regulation in the mushroom edible industry has contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the safety of these products.

Selecting the right mushrooms

• Legal considerations: Mushroom gummies have recently come under scrutiny due to safety concerns and the presence of undisclosed and potentially illegal substances. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that the mushrooms you select are legal in your jurisdiction. For example, Amanita muscaria, also known as the "Mario mushroom," contains psychoactive compounds and falls into a legal grey area. While it is legal to possess in most states, its commercial production and distribution are less clear. Be sure to research the legal status of the mushrooms you are considering to avoid any regulatory issues.
• Purpose of the gummies: Determine whether the intended purpose of your gummies is medicinal or recreational. If you aim to create a functional food or supplement, choose medicinal mushrooms with proven health benefits. Reishi mushrooms, for instance, have a long history in Chinese medicine and are known for their immune-boosting, sleep-promoting, and anxiety-reducing properties. Other non-psychoactive mushrooms like lion's mane, cordyceps, and chaga also offer unique health benefits, including boosting immune function, reducing inflammation, and increasing energy levels. If your focus is on recreational use, you may consider mushrooms with psychoactive properties, but be mindful of the associated risks and legal implications.
• Safety: When selecting mushrooms, prioritize safety. Some mushrooms can cause allergic reactions or stomach discomfort, so it is wise to start with whole mushrooms of each variety and observe how your body reacts before incorporating them into gummies. Additionally, be cautious of potential interactions with medications. For example, reishi mushrooms may interfere with blood clotting, and cordyceps can affect blood sugar levels, which is important for individuals on diabetes medications. Always consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or are taking prescription drugs.
• Quality and sourcing: Ensure that you source your mushrooms from reputable suppliers who prioritize quality and safety. Look for organic, sustainably grown mushrooms that have been properly identified and processed to preserve their nutritional value. Dehydrated, powdered mushrooms are commonly used in gummies, and advanced equipment can help retain their bioactive compounds. Transparency in sourcing and third-party testing can also provide assurance of the mushrooms' quality and purity.
• Labeling and regulation: The mushroom gummy market has been plagued by inaccurate labeling and a lack of regulation. Always choose companies that provide detailed and accurate ingredient lists, and be wary of products that make exaggerated claims or promise psychedelic experiences from non-psychoactive mushrooms. While regulations vary across regions, opt for brands that comply with relevant food safety standards and are transparent about the contents of their products.

In conclusion, selecting the right mushrooms for your gummies involves careful consideration of legal, safety, and health factors. By choosing mushrooms with proven benefits, sourcing them responsibly, and adhering to regulatory requirements, you can create a safe and effective product. Remember to always conduct thorough research and consult experts when in doubt.

Preparing the mushroom extract

Firstly, select the desired mushroom variety for your gummies. Popular choices include reishi, lion's mane, cordyceps, and chaga mushrooms, each associated with unique health benefits. Reishi mushrooms, for instance, have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries and are known for their immune-boosting, sleep-promoting, and anxiety-reducing properties.

Once you have selected the mushroom variety, ensure you obtain them from a reputable source, preferably organic and free from any contaminants or pesticides. Clean and prepare the mushrooms by gently wiping them with a damp cloth or brush to remove any visible dirt or debris.

The next step is to decide on the method of extraction. One common approach is to dehydrate the mushrooms and grind them into a fine powder. Dehydration helps preserve the mushrooms and concentrates their active compounds. You can use a food dehydrator or an oven set at a low temperature until the mushrooms are completely dry. Then, grind the dried mushrooms into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or a high-speed blender.

Another method is to create a mushroom extract by simmering the mushrooms in water or a solvent, such as alcohol or glycerin, for a more concentrated form. This method involves heating the mushrooms in the liquid base for a prolonged period to draw out their active compounds. The resulting liquid extract can then be incorporated into the gummy mixture.

It is crucial to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a face mask, when handling mushrooms to avoid any potential allergic reactions or skin irritation. Additionally, ensure that the workspace is clean and sanitized to prevent any contamination.

Once you have prepared the mushroom powder or extract, you can proceed to the next steps of making the gummies, including adding a gelling agent and sweetening agents, if desired. Remember to always exercise caution and conduct thorough research before consuming or distributing mushroom gummies.

Mixing and setting the ingredients

The process of making mushroom gummies typically involves mixing and setting various ingredients, including mushrooms, sweeteners, gelling agents, and other additives. Here is a detailed guide on this stage of the process:

Firstly, it is important to select the right type of mushrooms for the gummies. Non-hallucinogenic functional mushrooms, such as reishi, lion's mane, cordyceps, and chaga, are commonly used in mushroom gummies due to their perceived health benefits. These mushrooms are believed to boost immune function, reduce inflammation, increase energy levels, and promote cognitive function. It is crucial to exercise caution and choose mushrooms that are safe for consumption and do not interfere with any medications one might be taking.

The selected mushrooms are then dehydrated and powdered to preserve their nutritional value. This process involves using advanced equipment to ensure the mushrooms are adequately dried and processed into a fine powder. The powder form makes it easier to mix the mushrooms with other ingredients and creates a more palatable and convenient final product.

Next, the mushroom powder is mixed with a gelling agent, which gives the gummies their characteristic texture and chewiness. Common gelling agents used in gummy production include gelatin, pectin, or agar-agar. The type of gelling agent chosen may depend on the desired texture and the dietary restrictions of the intended consumers.

Sweeteners are also added to enhance the taste and make the gummies more appealing to those with a sweet tooth. However, it is important to note that some people may have allergies or intolerances to specific sweeteners, so this should be considered during the ingredient selection process. Additionally, colouring agents may be included to give the gummies a visually appealing appearance, but again, allergens must be considered.

Other additives or functional ingredients might be incorporated at this stage, depending on the intended effects of the gummies. For example, some manufacturers add vitamins or minerals to create a more comprehensive supplement. However, it is crucial to exercise caution and ensure that any additional ingredients are safe, properly tested, and accurately labelled to avoid adverse health effects.

Finally, the mixture is thoroughly combined, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This mixture will then be used to create the gummy candies through moulding or cutting, followed by appropriate storage to maintain potency and flavour.

Storing the gummies

Storing mushroom gummies requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure their potency and flavour are maintained. Here are some detailed guidelines for storing your mushroom gummies effectively:

Temperature Control:

Maintain a consistent and cool temperature. The ideal storage temperature for mushroom gummies is between 15°C and 25°C (59°F and 77°F). Higher temperatures can cause the gummies to melt or become sticky, resulting in a loss of shape and texture. Lower temperatures may affect the potency of the active ingredients in the mushrooms.

Light Exposure:

Minimize direct sunlight and UV light exposure. Light, especially UV rays, can break down the nutrients and active compounds in the mushroom gummies over time, reducing their effectiveness. Store them in a dark or opaque container or keep them in a dark pantry or cupboard.

Airtight Containers:

Use airtight storage containers. Air exposure can lead to oxidation and moisture absorption, affecting the texture and freshness of the gummies. It is best to store the gummies in airtight containers or resealable bags designed to keep moisture and air out.

Humidity Control:

Maintain a stable humidity level. Excessive humidity can cause the gummies to become sticky and promote the growth of mould or bacteria. Use a dehumidifier or silica gel packets in your storage container to help keep the relative humidity at an optimal level, typically below 60%.

Expiration Dates:

Pay attention to expiration dates and best-before dates. Even when stored optimally, mushroom gummies will eventually lose potency and flavour over time. Consume the gummies before the recommended expiration date to ensure you receive the expected health benefits and avoid any potential degradation in taste and texture.

Allergens and Interactions:

Be mindful of allergens and potential interactions with other substances. If you are allergic to specific ingredients, such as sweeteners, colouring agents, or gelling agents used in gummies, store your mushroom gummies separately to avoid cross-contamination. Additionally, if you are taking medications, consult a medical professional about possible interactions with the mushrooms in the gummies and store your medications separately to avoid any confusion.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively store your mushroom gummies to maintain their quality, potency, and safety.

Consuming the gummies

Consuming mushroom gummies may be harmless and beneficial, but it is not without risks. The potential benefits of consuming mushroom gummies depend on the type of mushroom used. For example, reishi mushrooms, which have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries, are believed to boost the immune system, reduce inflammation, increase energy levels, and reduce stress. Lion's mane and cordyceps mushrooms are also thought to have unique health benefits, such as boosting immune function and improving cognitive function.

However, it is important to approach the consumption of mushroom gummies with caution. The market for these products is largely unregulated, and it has been found that some mushroom gummies contain undisclosed and potentially harmful substances, including illegal drugs and toxic compounds. For example, some mushroom gummies have been found to contain psilocybin and psilocin, which are classified as Schedule I drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are illegal at both the federal and state levels in the United States. Other unlisted substances found in mushroom gummies include caffeine, ephedrine, and mitragynine (an opioid agonist).

The lack of regulation in the industry means that consumers cannot always trust the labels on mushroom gummy products. Inaccurate labelling is common, and even products that claim to be free from certain substances, such as cannabinoids, have been found to contain them. This can be particularly dangerous for individuals who may have allergies or adverse reactions to certain ingredients. Therefore, it is important for consumers to be critical and cautious when considering purchasing mushroom gummies, especially if they are on other medications. Consulting a medical professional before consuming mushroom gummies is advisable, especially if you are taking prescription drugs, as certain mushrooms can interfere with blood clotting or affect blood sugar levels.

It is also recommended to first try whole mushrooms of each variety individually and observe how your body reacts before consuming mushroom gummies, as side effects such as allergic reactions or stomach discomfort can occur. If you experience any adverse symptoms after consuming mushroom gummies, seek immediate medical attention.

Frequently asked questions