Sarah Brown
Oyster mushrooms are cultivated in many parts of the world and are popular among chefs and restaurants due to their unique flavors and textures. They are also sought after by consumers for their health benefits and culinary versatility. With the increasing demand for oyster mushrooms, it is important to understand how many mushrooms constitute a typical order, whether for fresh market sales or culinary applications. A typical order quantity of oyster mushrooms can vary depending on the sales channel and the specific variety, such as blue, yellow, or pink oyster mushrooms.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Price | $6-9/lb from a distributor, $14-15/lb for quality mushrooms, $15-20/lb from local startups |
| Quantity | Minimum order of 50 blocks, each block yielding 1 lb on the first flush, 1/2 lb on the second flush, and 1/2-1/4 lb on the third flush |
| Shipping | Free shipping on US orders above $40, express shipping for orders with more than 4 bags |
| Weight | 4 oz per bag |
| Shelf Life | Up to 15 months |
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What You'll Learn
Oyster mushroom prices
Oyster mushrooms are cultivated and sold fresh or processed into various products. The price of oyster mushrooms varies depending on factors such as quantity, quality, and source.
Fresh oyster mushrooms are typically sold by weight, with prices ranging from around $6 to $9 per pound from distributors and up to $15-20 per pound from local startups. The price can depend on whether they are sourced from local distributors, startups, or large warehouses, with local startups typically asking for higher prices. The type of oyster mushroom, such as golden, black pearl, or king oyster, can also influence the price, with specialty varieties commanding higher prices.
Oyster mushrooms can also be purchased in smaller quantities, such as 4-ounce bags, which may be more suitable for individual consumers rather than restaurants. These smaller quantities often have a higher price per unit weight compared to buying in bulk. Some companies offer free shipping or express shipping for larger orders.
Oyster mushrooms are cultivated in various parts of the world, with China being a notable producer. The substrate used for cultivation, such as sawdust, cotton seed hulls, or rice/wheat straw, can impact the yield and size of the mushrooms, which may, in turn, influence the pricing.
When purchasing oyster mushrooms, it is important to consider factors such as freshness, availability, and intended use. For chefs or restaurants, the consistency, variety, and local sourcing of the product may also play a role in their purchasing decisions.
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Oyster mushroom varieties
Oyster mushrooms are one of the simplest varieties of mushrooms to grow at home, as they grow quickly and can be grown on a wide variety of substrates. Oyster mushrooms usually grow on the bark of trees, away from the ground, so they are generally clean and don't require much cleaning. They are native to the tropics and prefer warmer climates. They are prized for their texture, which is tender and meaty when cooked properly. Oyster mushrooms have a mild, woody, earthy flavour with a hint of anise, and an umami flavour that has been compared to seafood.
Pearl Oyster
Pearl oyster mushrooms Pleurotus ostreatus are the most common type of oyster mushroom, particularly in North America. They have a slightly sweet and woodsy taste, and are more mild and tender than shiitake mushrooms. They have a nutty flavour and a slightly soft and chewy texture.
Blue Oyster
Blue oyster mushrooms Pleurotus columbinus are named for the blue colour of their caps when they first start to bloom, although this fades to grey with white gills as they mature. They are used in Asian stews because they retain their shape when cooked in liquid, and their chewy texture makes them a popular meat substitute. They taste identical to pearl oysters.
Golden Oyster
The golden oyster mushroom Pleurotus citrinopileatus has a vivid yellow colour and a more complex, aromatic flavour than the standard pearl and blue oyster varieties.
Pink Oyster
Also known as the flamingo oyster Pleurotus djamor, this variety is a vivid pink colour with a ruffled appearance. Its flavour is seafood-like, and it is often paired with seafood dishes.
Phoenix Oyster
The phoenix oyster Pleurotus pulmonarius is similar in flavour to the pearl oyster, but with smaller, paler caps and a longer stem. It prefers warmer weather and tends to grow in late summer.
King Oyster
The king oyster Pleurotus eryngii is the least similar in appearance to other oyster mushrooms, as it is much larger, with a thicker, meatier stem. King oysters grow individually, rather than in clusters, and have a savoury, umami flavour, similar to scallops.
Aspen Oyster
The aspen oyster mushroom Pleurotus populinus is a hardwood-loving strain that grows on aspen, cottonwood, alder, birch, and sometimes conifer trees. They are mostly found at higher elevations.
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Oyster mushroom cultivation
Oyster mushrooms are a great choice for first-time growers due to their resilience, fast growth, and ability to grow almost anywhere on just about anything. They are also highly tolerant of variations in temperature, humidity, light levels, and carbon dioxide levels.
The cultivation of oyster mushrooms is quite recent and only dates back to the early 20th century when Germans decided to cultivate the mushroom for subsistence during World War II. Oyster mushrooms usually take around 14 weeks to grow from the start of composting to the final steam-off after harvest.
The most widely used substrate for oyster mushrooms is straw. Straw is usually cheap, contains essential nutrients, and oyster mushrooms thrive on it. To prepare straw for inoculation, it needs to be pasteurized by soaking in hot water (65-80°C / 149-176°F) for 1-2 hours, or in a cold-water high-pH lime bath for 12-18 hours. Coffee grounds can also be used as a substrate, but it is important to only use fresh grounds (within 24 hours of brewing) that have already been pasteurized and hydrated by the coffee brewing process.
Once the substrate is pasteurized, it can be mixed with the mushroom spawn. As a general rule, the more spawn you add, the faster the substrate will be colonized. After mixing, the spawn needs to be left to incubate. During this time, the mycelium will spread throughout the straw. The incubation period can take between 1 to 3 weeks, depending on the mushroom variety, humidity, and temperature.
Once the spawn has colonized the substrate, the mushrooms will begin to fruit. At this stage, it is important to maintain high humidity (85-90% is recommended) and allow fresh air to flush through the growing area. The temperature can be higher than during the initial pinning stage. Pleurotus ostreatus (winter oyster mushrooms) prefer a temperature of 10-20°C (50-70°F), while Pleurotus pulmonarius (summer oyster mushrooms) prefer 16-28°C (60-80°F). Oyster mushrooms are typically ready to harvest 15 to 21 days after casing, which is 7 to 8 weeks after composting started.
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Oyster mushroom yield
Oyster mushrooms are cultivated in many parts of the world, and their yield can vary depending on various factors, including the substrate used, environmental conditions, and cultivation techniques. Here is an overview of oyster mushroom yield and the factors that influence it:
The yield of oyster mushrooms depends on several factors, and it can vary across different cultivation methods and environments. On average, a 5-lb block of oyster mushrooms can yield over 1 lb of mushrooms in the first flush, with subsequent flushes producing lower yields. The yield can also depend on the variety of oyster mushrooms being cultivated, with different varieties offering varying yields and sizes of mushrooms.
Substrate and Supplementation:
The choice of substrate and supplementation ratios play a crucial role in oyster mushroom yield. Oyster mushrooms can be grown on various substrates, including sawdust, cotton seed hull, rice straw, and wheat straw. The addition of supplements like soybean hulls or cotton seed hull to the substrate can enhance yield and biological efficiency. For example, supplementing rice straw or wheat straw substrate with cotton seed hull can increase mushroom weight and cap diameter while shortening the stipe length.
Environmental Conditions:
Environmental conditions such as temperature and humidity impact oyster mushroom yield. Oyster mushrooms can grow within a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for cultivation in different climates. High humidity and low CO2 levels are favorable for maximizing the fruiting of oyster mushrooms, which is essential for achieving high yields.
Cultivation Techniques:
Proper cultivation techniques are critical for optimizing oyster mushroom yield. Using high-quality spawn, such as commercial grain spawn, and maintaining sterile conditions to prevent contamination are essential for healthy mushroom growth and higher yields. Additionally, techniques like soaking blocks to initiate flushes and providing adequate storage conditions can influence the yield and quality of the mushrooms.
Market and Financial Considerations:
The market demand, pricing, and financial aspects also play a role in oyster mushroom yield. The organic oyster mushroom market is expanding, with varying prices and varieties available. To grow oyster mushrooms for profit, it is crucial to balance mushroom yield with sales routes and find consistent buyers who can purchase at constant prices.
In summary, oyster mushroom yield is influenced by a combination of factors, including substrate choice, environmental conditions, cultivation techniques, and market dynamics. By optimizing these factors and adopting sustainable practices, cultivators can aim for higher yields and contribute to the growing demand for oyster mushrooms.
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Oyster mushroom shipping
Oyster mushrooms are a delicious and healthy ingredient, and their cultivation is an efficient biotechnological process for lignocellulosic organic waste recycling. They are increasingly popular, and more people are getting into the business of fresh oyster mushroom cultivation. Oyster mushrooms come in a variety of colours, including yellow, pink, blue, brown, and phoenix, and they offer a fast and aggressive mycelial growth as well as high yields.
When it comes to shipping oyster mushrooms, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, maintaining the right temperature and humidity conditions is crucial. Oyster mushrooms grow at a wide range of temperatures, but to maximize fruiting, they require high humidity and low CO2 levels. Shipping companies need to ensure that they have the appropriate equipment to maintain these conditions during transport. This may include specialized containers or refrigeration units.
Another important factor is the substrate on which the oyster mushrooms are grown. Oyster mushrooms can be cultivated on various substrates, including sawdust, cotton seed hull, and rice/wheat straw. The choice of substrate can impact the yield, size, and quality of the mushrooms. For example, cotton seed hulls have been found to increase mushroom weight and cap diameter while shortening the stipe length. Shipping companies should be aware of the specific substrate requirements of oyster mushrooms to ensure optimal growth and quality during transport.
Additionally, contamination is a significant concern in oyster mushroom cultivation. If other fungi or bacteria grow in the substrate, yields will decrease, and it will be challenging to maintain high-quality mushrooms. Shipping companies need to implement strict hygiene protocols and contamination prevention measures to ensure that the mushrooms remain uncontaminated during transport. This may include using sterile packaging, implementing strict handling procedures, and ensuring that the shipping environment is free from potential contaminants.
When it comes to pricing, there can be a wide range depending on various factors. Local startups might charge higher prices, ranging from $15 to $20 per pound, while distributors typically offer lower prices, ranging from $6 to $9 per pound. Quality mushrooms can be priced at around $14 to $15 per pound. It's important to note that prices may vary based on factors such as market demand, growing practices, and the ability to maintain consistent sales routes.
Lastly, shipping companies should be aware of any regulations or restrictions that may apply to the transport of oyster mushrooms. This includes any weight or volume limitations, as well as any specific requirements for perishable or agricultural products. By following these guidelines and maintaining the appropriate conditions, shipping companies can ensure the safe and efficient transport of oyster mushrooms, contributing to their growing popularity and accessibility.
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Frequently asked questions
This depends on the type of order. Fresh oyster mushrooms are typically sold by weight, with prices ranging from \$6-9/lb from a distributor and \$14-15/lb from local startups. Dried oyster mushrooms are sold in smaller quantities, with a typical order being 4 oz.
One source mentions that a 5.5 lb block of supplemented sawdust can yield over 1 lb of oyster mushrooms on the first flush, with subsequent flushes yielding less.
Oyster mushroom prices vary depending on the source and quantity purchased. Distributors typically charge \$6-9/lb, while local startups may charge \$14-20/lb.
Oyster mushrooms can be purchased from distributors, local startups, or specialty websites such as Pacific Wild Pick and Four Star Mushrooms.
