By Kate James
They’re called superfoods for a reason, and they have the power to add value to both your health and your wealth. Specialty food items remain in high demand due to recent health trends, with growth in mushroom production being driven by consumer preferences. With some varieties reaching prices as high as $200 a pound, investors are starting to take notice, too.
Health Benefits of Mushrooms
Rich in calcium, vitamins B and D, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium, mushrooms bring a wide variety of health benefits in addition to complementing popular dishes with savory flavor.
Proven to decrease the risk of cancer
Containing high amounts of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage, mushrooms have been proven to reduce risk of cancer by 45%.
Promote gut health
According to UCLA Health, “The microbiome in your gut is home to organisms and bacteria that play a large role in your health and mood. One way to keep your gut healthy is to stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria in that space with the use of prebiotics, such as mushrooms. Research shows that mushroom polysaccharides, their most abundant carbohydrate, stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria. While many foods break down with stomach acid, the polysaccharides found in mushrooms pass through the stomach unchanged and can reach the colon to encourage bacteria growth there.”
“Researchers continue to study the effects of eating mushrooms on mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI causes memory and language difficulties and is often a precursor to Alzheimer’s disease. In a study in Singapore, participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms a week had a 50% lower risk of developing MCI. Even those who ate only one cup saw some benefit. The mushrooms eaten by participants included golden, oyster, shiitake and white button mushrooms.”
Controlled-Environment Ag
It’s no secret that farmers and ranchers are getting crafty with ways to grow high-demand items in closer proximity to consumers. With over 80% of consumers living in urban areas, many producers are utilizing controlled-environment agriculture (CEA) to operate in a more sustainable, efficient manner.
These modern methods allow consumers to purchase local and experience specialty items - such as mushrooms - that may not be native or easily grown in their area. Additionally, CEA is keeping sustainability at the forefront of operation by reducing water usage, increasing efficiency, and decreasing food insecurity by producing more food with less resources.
According to Cornell, "A CEA mushroom system has several advantages, including:
1) consistent temperatures (65 to 75 F) can be maintained
2) automation and monitoring can manage relative humidity, air flow, and lighting
3) production per square foot can be predicted and altered by modifying the climate and
4) sanitation can be managed to reduce cross contamination and food safety risks.”
Market Projections
According to IMARC Group, the global superfood market is projected to reach $214 billion by 2027, in response to consumers adopting a healthier, more balanced diet. According to KBV Research, the global mushroom market alone is projected to reach $52 billion by the year 2026. Growth in the mushroom market is also driven by the alternative protein trend, with some varieties making a great meat substitute.
“The growing consumer health consciousness coupled with the increasing awareness towards several nutritional benefits of superfoods is primarily driving the market growth,” IMARC Group states. “Moreover, the high prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and heart-related medical ailments, due to sedentary consumer lifestyles is also catalyzing the demand for superfoods.”
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