Shiitake mushrooms are highly valued for their distinctive flavor and health-promoting properties. They are particularly noted for their ability to enhance the immune system, thanks to their high levels of vitamins, minerals, and beta-glucans. These mushrooms are also studied for their cholesterol-lowering effects and potential to support cardiovascular health. Furthermore, shiitake is believed to have anti-cancer benefits, attributed to its unique phytochemicals. In addition to these benefits, shiitake mushrooms are used to promote skin health through their antioxidant properties. Available in various forms such as fresh, dried, or as dietary supplements, shiitake mushrooms offer a practical way to enrich one's diet and health regimen.

Here is some more detailed information to help you.

To preserve potency, store mushroom extract powders in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Seal tightly after each use to prevent moisture exposure. When stored correctly, the powders have a shelf life of up to 24 months from the manufacturing date. For optimal freshness, use within 6–12 months after opening.

Organic Shiitake mushroom extract powder with over 35% beta-glucan content. Made from 100% fruiting bodies with no starches or other fillers.

**Great Ideas for Using Mushroom Extract Powder**

1. **Add to Smoothies**: Boost your daily smoothie with a teaspoon of mushroom extract powder for added immune support, mental clarity, or energy throughout the day. Its mild flavor blends seamlessly with fruits, greens, and protein powders.

2. **Enhance Your Coffee or Tea**: Stir mushroom extract powder into your morning coffee or tea for a natural, caffeine-free energy boost and a steady, focused start to your day.

3. **Incorporate into Soups and Broths**: Elevate the nutritional profile of your soups, broths, or stews by adding mushroom extract powder. It dissolves easily, adding beneficial compounds without altering the taste.

4. **Mix into Oatmeal or Yogurt**: Stir in a teaspoon of mushroom powder into your morning oatmeal, yogurt, or overnight oats for an effortless way to integrate mushrooms into your daily routine.

5. **Blend into Protein Shakes**: Add mushroom extract powder to your post-workout protein shake for extra recovery benefits and immune support, perfect for active lifestyles.

6. **Bake Into Treats**: Sneak some mushroom power into baked goods like energy balls, granola bars, or muffins for a health boost without changing the flavor.

7. **Sprinkle on Salads or Bowls**: Sprinkle a small amount of mushroom extract powder on salads, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables to add a subtle earthy flavor and boost nutritional value.

8. **Season Meats and Vegetables**: Elevate your cooking by blending mushroom extract powder into your favorite seasoning mix for meats or vegetables. Whether you're grilling, roasting, or stir-frying, the powder adds an umami-rich flavor and enhances the overall nutritional value of your dishes. Perfect for marinades, rubs, or spice blends.

These versatile mushroom extract powders fit effortlessly into your daily routine, helping you stay balanced, energized, and focused no matter how you choose to enjoy them.

There is a lot of discussion around which parts of the mushroom should be used for extraction. Here is a short explanation:
In mushrooms, the part that is typically used for extracting nutrients and compounds is the fruiting body, which is the visible part of the mushroom that emerges above ground. This is because the fruiting body contains most of the bioactive compounds, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other beneficial substances.

The fruiting body is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds because it is where the reproductive structures of the mushroom develop. These structures contain various substances that the mushroom needs for growth and reproduction, as well as compounds that help defend against pathogens and predators.

However, it's worth noting that different parts of the mushroom may have different nutritional profiles and concentrations of bioactive compounds. For example, some mushrooms also produce mycelium, the underground network of fungal threads, which can also contain valuable nutrients and compounds. Additionally, certain species of mushrooms may have medicinal properties associated with specific parts of the organism, such as the mycelium or even the spores. Therefore, the specific part of the mushroom used for extraction can depend on the desired nutrients or compounds and the intended use.

We always use the fruiting body for our extracts but we are also working on developing special compound extracts from other parts like the mycelium and spores. Keep an eye on our blogs and subscribe to our newsletter to get notified of these advancements as they happen.

We use a very unique and effective dual or triple extraction process that includes enzymatic extraction, hot water extraction and even solvent extraction for certain mushrooms and/or desired compounds. This ensures that all of the beneficial nutrients are extracted from the mushroom fruiting body. It also breaks down the chitin.

Chitin is like the tough armor that mushrooms wear, similar to how insects have their exoskeletons. This armor protects the mushroom's cells, but it's tough for our bodies to break down and use as food.

For us to get the nutrients from mushrooms, we need to break down this armor into smaller, digestible parts. Enzymes called chitinases do this job. They break down the chitin into smaller pieces that our bodies can absorb and use for energy.

So, without breaking down chitin, we can't get the nutrients from mushrooms.

Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) is a popular mushroom known for its rich, savory flavor and numerous health benefits. Originating in East Asia, it's a staple in many dishes and is revered for its nutritional value. Shiitake is rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting overall health and boosting the immune system. It's also recognized for its potential to reduce cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Additionally, shiitake contains compounds that may have anti-cancer properties. People use it to improve skin health due to its high content of antioxidants. Shiitake is versatile and can be used fresh or dried in cooking, or taken as a supplement in powder or capsule form.