Report

Global mushroom market is projected to witness a CAGR of 8.7% during the forecast period 2024-2031, growing from USD 65.93 billion in 2023 to USD 128.5 billion in 2031. Factors such as increasing consumers' awareness of healthy and nutritional benefits such as low-calorie content, high levels of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are driving the demand for mushrooms in the market. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier food options, and mushrooms are part of the trend. Moreover, as the awareness of the environmental impact of meat production increases, mushrooms being a popular substitution option for meat, further driving the growth of the market as more people are adopting plant-based diets.
Other factors that contribute to the rising demand of the market are mushrooms as versatile products and usage across various industries for different purposes, for instance, its primary usage is in food industry as they provide wide range of culinary applications, from soups and salads to main dishes.
In January 2024, Wiz Khalifa announced the launch of its mushroom-growing, direct-to-consumer brand named Mistercap's. It markets USD 27.95 grow-your-own kits of mushroom so that the consumers may have oyster, lion's mane, and shiitake mushrooms ready to be eaten at their homes. The company announced that 2% of total purchase will be supporting the pro-mushroom non-profit educational foundation of Fungi.
Moreover, as it has immunomodulatory properties, anti-cancer properties, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and antibacterial and antiviral properties, it is a good fit in the pharmaceutical industry. Due to anti-aging, skin lightening, brightening, and anti-inflammatory properties, and soothing effects, mushroom is amongst the wanted ingredient in the cosmetic industry as well.
Product Innovation to Boost the Market
Product innovation acts as a catalyst to propel the growth of the mushroom market. Various manufacturers in food industry are introducing a wide range of mushroom-based products, ranging from meat substitutes to snacks and supplements, tapping into the rising demand for plant-based alternatives. Innovations like mushroom-infused beverages, ready-to-eat meals, and mycelium-based materials showcase the versatile applications of mushrooms.
For instance, in August 2023, Mushroom Inc. announced that it is in the last stage of receiving the complete patent for mycelium thread technology. This technology strives for a more sustainable and ecological future with technological advancements. The distinct features of the mycelium thread can be used across different sectors such as medical, lifestyle, military, environmental applications, and aerospace. Combining the natural characteristics of mycelium, with ingenious elements, the textile made from mycelium shows inherent ability for microbial detection and antimicrobial properties.
Additionally, advancements in cultivation techniques, packaging, and processing technologies contribute to product diversification and quality improvement. As consumers seek healthier and sustainable choices, these innovative mushroom products address the evolving preferences, expanding market reach and fostering a robust growth trajectory for the mushroom industry.
Versatility of Mushroom to Boost the Market
Mushroom is a versatile ingredient and a highly demanded product which has various applications from food to medicine, and from textile to cosmetics. It has antimicrobial, antiseptic, and nutritional benefits due to which it can be used in various products. Manufacturers are innovating and expanding its usage through technological advancements and making it more useful ingredient, thus, boosting the growth of the mushroom market.
Four Sigmatic launched a new range of organic mushroom capsules in August 2023, which were available in Calm, Focus, and Memory varieties. The combination of mushrooms, vitamins, adaptogens, and botanicals are developed to offer enriched effects as compared to consuming mushrooms. Focus mushroom capsules consist of lion's mane extract, vitamin B12 and L-theanine, developed to promote productivity, concentration, and sustained mental energy. Calm mushroom capsules contain ashwagandha, reishi extract, and vitamin B6, developed for mood support and nervous system. Memory mushroom capsules consist of gotu kola, cordyceps extract, and folate developed to enhance cognitive function, memory, and mental stamina.
Limited Shelf Life Restraining the Growth of the Market
The limited shelf life of mushrooms poses a major drawback to the growth of the mushroom market. Mushrooms are highly perishable due to high water content present in them which makes them susceptible to rapid deterioration, spoilage, and microbial contamination. Thus, they have a relatively shorter shelf life as compared to other food items.
The short shelf life creates a barrier in logistics and efficient supply chain, leading to an increase in waste and economic losses for producers, distributors, and retailers. Moreover, due to high perishability, producers find it difficult to expand their operations overseas limiting their base of consumers.
Consumer preferences for convenience and long-lasting products contribute to the impact of limited shelf life on the mushroom market. As consumers seek products with extended shelf lives, the inherent perishability of mushrooms leads to lose some of its potential buyers in the market.
To tackle these challenges, processed mushrooms are gaining popularity in the market with the help of technological advancements at various stages such as packaging, cold chain infrastructure, and storage methods to extend the shelf life of mushrooms. Overcoming the challenge of limited shelf life is crucial for meeting the increasing demand for mushrooms in the market.
Processed Mushrooms to Dominate the Market
Nowadays, the consumers are preferring processed foods due to various reasons. As consumers have busy lifestyles, processed mushrooms are convenient and time-saving, which attract the consumers to purchase them. Moreover, the diversity and availability of processed mushroom retail options caters to their popularity. Additionally, ease in preparation and minimized cooking time resonated with the processed mushrooms, appealing to the consumers, driving the demand of the product.
For instance, in June 2023, Monterey Mushroom, LLC launched a new product line, Sizzling Sautes. These mushroom kits are packaged in a 13.5 ounce box, containing sliced mushrooms which have high levels of vitamin D. The kit comes with a sauce sachet which combines with the dish to make it a convenient protein snack and a perfect meat replacement. It was made available to its consumers in three unique flavours, viz, Fajita, Thai, and Teriyaki. The main motive behind the launch was to make the cooking process easier for the consumers without any sacrifice on nutrition and taste.
Although, ease and convenience may be the driving forces of processed mushrooms, it is important to raise awareness among the consumers about the negative impact on one's health. Taking advantage of the opportunity, manufacturers have introduced healthier options in the category of processed mushrooms, further promoting the growth of the market.
Future Market Scenario (2024 - 2031F)
Technological advancements in the mushroom market are leading to an increase in the production capacity, various innovations in technologies for cultivation, final mushroom good improvements, and efficient utilization of mushrooms' natural properties for environmental benefits and to expand its application across different sectors and industries making them more useful and demanded product.
For instance, Applied Food Sciences Inc. announced a partnership in August 2023, with KAAPA Biotech. The partnership enabled Applied Food Sciences Inc. to expand its plant-based portfolio by the addition of Nordic grown mushroom extracts for utilizing in food, supplements, and beverages as per the aim of the company.
Key Players Landscape and Outlook
Key participants in mushroom market are driving the growth through product innovation, technological advancement, and strategic partnerships. These strategic partnerships are helping the manufacturers in innovating and launching new products to cater to the dynamic needs of the consumers and gain a competitive edge in the market.
McCain Foods acquired Scelta Mushrooms BV in September 2022. The acquisition led to the expansion of McCain's frozen vegetable appetizer space and growth in the market. The inclusion of Scelta's, battered and breaded mushrooms, through the strategic acquisition, complements McCain's appetizers portfolio, meeting the rising demand for tasty snacks. Integrating Scelta's plant assets into McCain's network enhancing the production capacity, fostering latter's global growth in prepared appetizers across European and international markets.