Mushroom Production: A Growing Trend?

is mushroom production increasing

Mushroom production is increasing globally, with the market size projected to reach USD 115.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2022. China is the largest producer, accounting for over 93% of global production. The Asia Pacific region leads the market, with China having a per capita annual consumption of up to 10 kg. The demand for mushrooms is rising due to their nutritional content and health benefits, and increasing vegan populations seeking protein-rich alternatives. Specialty mushrooms are also gaining popularity, with sales increasing to meet rising demand. The functional mushroom industry is expanding rapidly, with expected sales of $34.3 billion by 2024. Advanced processing techniques, automation, and sustainable practices are being adopted to meet the growing demand and improve production efficiency.

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Global mushroom production increased 13.8-fold from 1990 to 2020

Global mushroom production has increased significantly over the past few decades. From 1990 to 2020, the world witnessed a remarkable 13.8-fold increase in mushroom production, reaching 42.8 million tons. This growth highlights the rising demand for mushrooms as a nutritious and versatile food source.

Mushrooms have gained popularity due to their nutritional benefits and perceived health properties. They are packed with key nutrients like selenium, vitamin D, glutathione, and ergothioneine, which offer various health advantages. For instance, these nutrients can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and dementia. Additionally, mushrooms are a good source of protein, providing approximately 3.3 g of protein per 100 g serving, making them a popular choice for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

The increasing awareness of the health benefits of mushrooms has led to a growing demand for specialty mushrooms. In the United States, per capita consumption has risen from 0.69 lbs. in 1978 to 4 lbs. per capita in 1999, with suburban and Asian communities exhibiting even higher consumption rates. This trend is expected to continue, with 70% of buyers anticipating an increase in demand for forest-grown shiitake mushrooms over a five-year period.

China is the largest producer and consumer of mushrooms, accounting for more than 93% of global mushroom production. The Asia Pacific region, led by China, dominated the market in 2021, with a share of over 78.6% of global revenue. However, it is important to note that total mushroom production outside of China has declined since 2012, and countries like Japan, the world's second-largest producer, have experienced stagnation in their mushroom industries.

The global mushroom market is projected to continue its upward trajectory. In 2021, the market was valued at USD 50.3 billion and is expected to reach USD 115.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.7%. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of mushrooms as a superfood, the rise in veganism, and consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with mushroom consumption.

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China accounts for over 93% of global mushroom production

Mushroom production has been increasing globally, with a 13.8-fold increase to 42.8 million tons from 1990 to 2020. This trend is driven by rising demand from fast-growing economies in the Asia Pacific and Latin America, as well as the popularity of mushrooms as a food and health supplement. The Asia-Pacific region, led by China, accounted for over 78.6% of global revenue in 2021.

China is the largest producer and consumer of mushrooms, with a per capita annual consumption of up to 10 kg. In 2024, China's output was 5,150,000 metric tons, constituting over 93% of global mushroom production. This dominance is expected to continue, with the Asia-Pacific region remaining the largest and fastest-growing market for mushrooms.

Shiitake mushrooms top the list of China's exports, with 13 million tons, followed by varieties like Lyophyllum decastes (fried chicken mushroom) and Auricularia polytricha (black fungus), commonly used in Chinese cuisine. The shiitake mushroom is also the most produced globally, followed by oyster, wood-ear, and button mushrooms. The demand for shiitake mushrooms is increasing due to their nutritional value and functional properties, such as anti-tumor, cholesterol-lowering, and antiviral attributes.

While China leads in mushroom production, other notable producers include Spain, France, Iran, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has also been working to improve local mushroom production in Bhutan, and similar initiatives have been undertaken by organizations in the Netherlands, South Korea, and China to strengthen rural economies.

The mushroom industry is attracting investment due to its small area requirements, high returns, and scalability. Additionally, the environmental benefits of mushroom cultivation, such as improved water storage and soil ecosystem maintenance, contribute to its promising future. However, challenges related to pest control, production costs, and climate change regulations may impact overall growth prospects.

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The US is the second-largest producer, but production has been declining since 2017

Mushroom production has been on the rise globally, with a 13.8-fold increase to 42.8 million tons between 1990 and 2020. China is the largest producer, accounting for over 93% of global production. However, the US, the second-largest producer, has seen a different trend since 2017.

In 2019, the US produced approximately 375 million kg of mushrooms, an 11% decline from 2017. This decrease in production has resulted in a 6% increase in prices from 2017 to 2018 and a further 3% increase in 2018-2019. The US government's increasing import duties have also contributed to higher mushroom prices. Despite the decline in production, demand from end-users continues to grow.

Several factors contribute to the decreasing mushroom production in the US. One reason could be the challenges associated with mushroom cultivation, such as susceptibility to diseases and pests. Insects and animal pests pose significant hurdles, increasing production costs and impacting yield. Additionally, the high operational costs and the requirement for skilled management and input may also play a role in the declining production.

However, there are opportunities for the US mushroom industry to tap into the growing market. The increasing demand for specialty mushrooms, driven by consumer interest in healthy, nutritious, and medicinal foods, presents a potential area for growth. The US has seen a rise in per capita consumption of mushrooms, with suburban and Asian communities leading the way. With the right adaptations and investments, the US industry can meet the growing demand and reverse the decline in production.

Furthermore, the functional mushroom industry, which includes mushroom supplements, is expanding rapidly. With expected sales of $34.3 billion by 2024, up from $20 billion in 2018, this sector offers a promising opportunity for US mushroom farms. As consumer awareness of the health benefits of mushrooms increases, the demand for mushroom-based products is likely to grow, providing a positive outlook for the industry's future.

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Demand for specialty mushrooms is increasing, with sales rising to meet demand

The demand for specialty mushrooms is increasing, with sales rising to meet demand. Specialty mushrooms include shiitake, oyster, and lion's mane mushrooms, which are cultivated for their health and medicinal benefits. For instance, shiitake mushrooms have been used in traditional medicines in Japan, China, and South Korea, and are believed to boost health and longevity while improving blood circulation. Oyster mushrooms contain benzaldehyde, an active compound that acts as a natural antibacterial, reducing bacterial levels in the body.

The global mushroom market size was valued at USD 50.3 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 115.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2022 to 2030. This growth is driven by the increasing vegan population demanding a protein-rich diet, as mushrooms offer nearly 3.3 g of protein per 100 g of serving. Additionally, the nutritional benefits of mushrooms, including their high content of selenium, vitamin D, glutathione, and ergothioneine, make them attractive to health-conscious consumers.

In 2017, production of specialty mushrooms in the United States grew by four percent from 2016 levels to 25.4 million pounds, with a sales value of $96.2 million. This increase in production is an attempt to meet the rising demand for specialty mushrooms, as consumers seek out healthier and more nutritious food options. The per capita consumption of mushrooms in the United States has also increased significantly over the years, with suburban areas having a higher consumption rate of 4.3 lbs per capita compared to metropolitan areas at 3.3 lbs per capita.

While the volume of organic mushroom grower sales in the United States has generally trended upwards since 2013, recent sales volumes have been impacted by factors such as tight labor supplies and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these challenges, organic mushroom growers are expanding their operations to meet the rising demand for organic mushrooms, which are viewed as a nutritious and healthy food option.

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The functional mushroom industry is expanding, with sales expected to reach $34.3 billion by 2024

The functional mushroom market is expanding, with sales projected to reach $34.3 billion by 2024, up from $20 billion in 2018. This growth is driven by several factors, including increasing consumer awareness, perceived health benefits, and the rising demand for protein-rich vegan sources.

Mushrooms are increasingly being recognized for their nutritional content and health benefits. They are packed with key nutrients such as selenium, vitamin D, glutathione, and ergothioneine, which help prevent or reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As a result, consumers are incorporating more mushrooms into their diets, leading to increased demand and sales. This is particularly evident in the United States, where per capita consumption of mushrooms has significantly increased since 1978, with recent analysis showing higher consumption in suburban and Asian communities.

The adoption of advanced processing and cultivation techniques is also contributing to the expansion of the functional mushroom industry. Companies like Heereco in the Netherlands are implementing automated solutions for mushroom harvesting, increasing efficiency and yields while reducing costs. Additionally, the utilization of advanced pest management systems helps control damage, further ensuring higher yields and aiding market growth.

The global mushroom market is expected to continue its upward trajectory, with a projected market size of USD 115.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2022 to 2030. China, the largest producer in the Asia Pacific region, is expected to remain a key player in the industry, while countries like the United States, Italy, Germany, and Taiwan are also significant contributors to the global mushroom market.

The expansion of the functional mushroom industry presents opportunities for international trade and the cultivation of exotic varieties, further fueling market growth. With increasing consumer demand for healthy, nutritious, and medicinal foods, the functional mushroom industry is well-positioned for continued expansion and success.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, global mushroom production increased 13.8-fold to 42.8 million tons from 1990 to 2020. China is the largest producer, contributing over 93% of global mushroom production.

Mushrooms are a good source of four key nutrients: selenium, vitamin D, glutathione, and ergothioneine. They are also a protein-rich vegan food option, which is becoming increasingly popular. The demand for specialty mushrooms is also rising as consumers seek out healthy, nutritious, and medicinal foods.

Mushrooms have a limited shelf life, which poses significant logistical difficulties. They are also strongly affected by humidity, temperature, and light, and insects and animal pests can pose serious issues for growers.

The global mushroom market is projected to reach USD 115.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 9.7% from 2022 to 2030. The increasing vegan population demanding a protein-rich diet is expected to drive the market. The functional mushroom industry is also expanding rapidly, with expected sales of $34.3 billion by 2024.

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