Sarah Brown
Coffee is a beloved beverage for many, but it can sometimes contain mould, mycotoxins, and pesticides, which can be harmful to health. This has led to a growing interest in organic, mould-free coffee. One such alternative is mushroom coffee, which has gained popularity as a healthier option. It is made by blending ground coffee beans with medicinal mushroom powder, resulting in a drink with a reduced caffeine content and added health benefits. While there are unverified health claims about mushroom coffee, it is believed to provide sustained energy without the negative side effects associated with regular coffee.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Is mushroom coffee mold-free? | It is not clear whether mushroom coffee is mold-free. However, there are several brands that offer organic and mold-free coffee. |
| Health benefits of mushroom coffee | It is claimed that mushroom coffee has several health benefits, including improved immunity, cancer prevention, and reduced inflammation. However, there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims. |
| Caffeine content | Mushroom coffee typically contains less caffeine than regular coffee due to the addition of mushroom powder, which is caffeine-free. |
| Taste | Mushroom coffee is said to have a rich and satisfying flavor, with notes of chocolate, nuts, and strawberry crumble. It does not taste like mushrooms. |
| Popular brands | Popular brands of mushroom coffee include CUPPA, Everyday Dose, MUD\WTR, Four Sigmatic, and Ryze. |
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What You'll Learn
The health benefits of mushroom coffee
While there is no solid evidence linking mushroom coffee to any health benefits, it is believed to have several positive effects on the body. Mushroom coffee is a mix of coffee beans and dehydrated ground mushrooms or mushroom powder. The types of mushrooms used are those with purported medicinal benefits, including reishi, lion's mane, chaga, cordyceps, and turkey tail. These medicinal mushrooms are rich in antioxidants and have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years.
One of the most common claims about mushroom coffee is its potential cognitive benefits. Lion's mane, for example, contains compounds that may support brain health and promote neural health. A study conducted on Japanese men and women aged 50-80 with mild cognitive impairment found that those who consumed lion's mane for 16 weeks showed improvements in cognitive function. Another study found that those who were supplemented with 1.8 grams of lion's mane experienced immediate and long-term cognitive benefits.
Mushroom coffee is also believed to support the immune system and have anti-inflammatory properties. Turkey tail, for instance, has demonstrated some immune-boosting properties in test-tube studies. Additionally, medicinal mushrooms have been indicated to have some potential as supportive therapies for cancer patients, such as helping to fight nausea and vomiting.
Other potential benefits of mushroom coffee include increased energy and stamina, support for healthy aging, and improved well-being. However, it is important to note that most of the benefits associated with mushroom coffee are related to drinking coffee, not mushroom coffee specifically. Additionally, there is limited research on the combined positive or negative health effects of mixing mushrooms and coffee beans.
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The history of mushroom coffee
In the years following World War II, the concept of mushroom coffee continued to evolve. By the 1940s, mushroom coffee had become a popular "superfood fad" in Finland, with people recognising its potential health benefits. This trend was not limited to Finland, as other countries also explored the use of mushrooms in coffee during times of scarcity, such as the United States during the Civil War, where okra seed coffee came into fashion.
The use of mushrooms in beverages is not solely a Western phenomenon. Asian countries, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, have a long history of incorporating medicinal mushrooms for their nutritional and therapeutic properties. These mushrooms are believed to have adaptogenic qualities, aiding in stress response and providing a range of health advantages.
In recent years, mushroom coffee has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with companies like Four Sigmatic promoting it as a superfood and a healthier alternative to regular coffee. The process of making mushroom coffee typically involves extracting the fruiting bodies of mushrooms, dehydrating them, and then grinding them into a fine powder that can be mixed with ground coffee beans in a 1:1 ratio. This results in a beverage with a reduced caffeine content compared to traditional coffee while potentially offering the health benefits associated with medicinal mushrooms.
While the exact health effects of combining mushrooms and coffee beans require further research, the history of mushroom coffee stretches back decades, and its recent popularity has brought this wartime tradition back into the spotlight.
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How to make mushroom coffee
Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground coffee and mushroom powder. It is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, with medicinal mushroom extracts and added health benefits. It is also a good option for those who are sensitive to caffeine, as the mushroom powder is caffeine-free and therefore reduces the overall caffeine content of the drink.
Making mushroom coffee at home is a simple process, but getting the ratios right can be tricky. Firstly, you will need to obtain some functional mushrooms, which can be grown yourself or bought online. Dried, powdered versions of the mushrooms are best. You can purchase mushroom blends specifically formulated for coffee, or make your own blend by buying the dried mushrooms or powders from a reputable source.
When making your own blend, it is recommended to use at least five different species of mushroom, including Lion's Mane, Chaga, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, and Tremella. You can start with equal portions of each mushroom and adjust the ratios according to your preference. The mushroom powder should be stored away from light, in an airtight container.
Once you have your mushroom powder, simply mix it with ground coffee beans in a 1:1 ratio. You can use a percolator, a pour-over setup, or a French press to brew your mushroom coffee, following the same steps you would for a regular cup of coffee.
Mushroom coffee can be prepared in the same way as regular coffee, and can be used to make mochas, lattes, or black coffee drinks. You can also add cream and sugar to taste.
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Popular mushroom coffee brands
Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground mushrooms and coffee beans, usually in a 1:1 ratio, that is touted as a healthier alternative to regular coffee. The health benefits of mushroom coffee are said to include improved immunity, cancer prevention, and improved cognitive function and endurance. However, it is important to note that there are unverified health claims about the benefits of mushroom coffee.
- Four Sigmatic: This brand offers a variety of mushroom coffee blends, including the Focus Instant Coffee, which comes in individual packets that can be mixed with hot water. The blend contains 250 milligrams each of organic lion's mane and chaga mushrooms, along with rhodiola extract and medium roast instant coffee.
- Clevr Coffee SuperLatte: This blend contains coffee, a blend of mushrooms, and a creamer, creating a smooth and spiced flavour. It also includes ingredients like ashwagandha, reishi, lion's mane, and heat-resistant probiotics for immune-boosting and mood-lifting effects.
- Atlas Coffee Club's Latte Superblend: This blend can be mixed with hot water and, if desired, sweeteners and milk. It has a mild coffee flavour and provides sustained energy.
- Laird's Functional Mushroom Focus Coffee: This medium roast coffee has a hint of smoke and a gentle numbing sensation when sipped. It also includes a protein creamer and rich notes of vanilla and coconut.
- Cuppa: This blend uses 100% arabica coffee beans and a blend of cordyceps and lion's mane mushrooms. It has a rich flavour with notes of chocolate, nuts, and strawberry crumble, without the bitter edge commonly found in coffee.
- Ryze: This brand offers a blend of organic mushrooms, including cordyceps, lion's mane, reishi, shiitake, turkey tail, and king trumpet, combined with organic arabica coffee, MCT oil, and coconut milk. It has a strong social media presence and celebrity endorsements.
- Yege Mushroom Coffee: This blend contains six adaptogenic mushrooms: cordyceps, reishi, lion's mane, shiitake, turkey tail, and king trumpet. It is mixed with arabica coffee, MCT oil, and coconut milk, creating a robust flavour.
While the health benefits of mushroom coffee are touted, it is important to ensure that the mushrooms used are free from mould, mycotoxins, and pesticides, as these can have negative health impacts.
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The dangers of mould in coffee
Coffee is typically lauded for its health benefits, such as being a great source of antioxidants and its potential anti-inflammatory properties. However, mould toxins have become a concern for many consumers. While coffee consumption shouldn't generally impact your health negatively, the levels of mycotoxins (mould toxins) in your coffee could cause some harm.
Mould can develop in or on coffee beans, but the mould itself is not as harmful as its byproducts, mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are toxic chemicals produced by moulds—tiny fungi that may grow on crops like grains and coffee beans if they're improperly stored. The two most notorious foodborne mycotoxins are ochratoxin A and aflatoxin B1, both of which are considered carcinogens. Ochratoxin A has been linked to kidney damage, immune system suppression, and liver cancer. Aflatoxin B1 is a known carcinogen and has been shown to have various harmful effects.
Several studies have found measurable levels of mycotoxins in coffee beans, both roasted and unroasted, as well as in brewed coffee. Evidence shows that mycotoxins are present in a large percentage of coffee beans and make it into the final drink. However, it's important to note that you are regularly exposed to trace amounts of harmful substances, including mycotoxins, in various foods and beverages. The liver can neutralize mycotoxins, so they do not build up in your body as long as exposure remains low. Additionally, at least 100 countries regulate the levels of these compounds.
While the presence of mycotoxins in coffee is a concern, it is unlikely to cause significant harm. The levels of mould in coffee are almost never going to be high enough to cause major health issues. However, heavy exposure to mould over a long period can lead to serious health issues. Mould exposure can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems, as documented by the World Health Organization (WHO). Therefore, it is important to choose organically grown coffee that has been tested for mycotoxins and stored properly to minimize the potential risks associated with mould and mycotoxins in your coffee.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground mushrooms and coffee beans. The mushrooms are dehydrated, ground into a fine powder, and mixed with ground coffee beans in a 1-to-1 ratio.
Yes, mushroom coffee is mould-free. It is also free from pesticides, toxins, and other additives.
Mushroom coffee is marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee. It has less caffeine than regular coffee, and adaptogenic mushrooms are known for their capacity to aid the body in stress management. Medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years and are said to have immune-boosting properties.
There are unverified health claims about the benefits of mushroom coffee. It is also important to note that not all brands of mushroom coffee have reduced caffeine content.
Popular brands of mushroom coffee include Ryze, MUD\WTR, Four Sigmatic, and Everyday Dose.
