Mushroom coffee is definitely having a moment. It’s the latest buzzword in health circles, but why? What is it and what makes it so much better than your regular morning cup?
Mushroom coffee is packed with benefits, but finding the best option isn’t as simple as grabbing the first trendy bag you see. With so many options out there you need to know what to look for so you don’t end up with a cup of dirty water that reminds you of the forest floor. We’re here to help break down how to find mushroom coffee that tastes great and is actually worth drinking.
What is Mushroom Coffee?
Let’s start with the basics. Mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their potential to improve cognitive function, immunity, and overall health. When combined with high-quality coffee, you get the boost of caffeine, plus the extra health perks from the mushrooms. Think of it as coffee’s smarter, healthier cousin.
There are several types of mushroom coffee. Some options are coffee alternatives while others blend regular coffee with powdered medicinal mushrooms like Lion’s Mane, Reishi, or Cordyceps. Some brands offer no coffee at all – just mushrooms. While others that do contain coffee often compromise on quality, meaning the coffee is not exactly great. But to get the most benefit, and the best flavor, there’s another option – infusing the beans with functional and adaptogenic mushrooms (our patented process). This gives you the best-tasting and healthiest option on the market.
Is Mushroom Coffee Good for You?
You’ve heard the hype, but let’s get into the science. Is mushroom coffee actually good for you? The short answer: Yes! And here’s why:
- Boosts cognitive function: Lion’s Mane, one of the most commonly used mushrooms in mushroom coffee, has been shown to support brain health and cognitive function. In fact, one study found that Lion’s Mane may help improve memory by promoting the growth of brain cells.
- Supports immunity: Reishi mushrooms, another popular choice, have been used for centuries for their immune-boosting properties. Some research suggests they may help modulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Enhances energy without jitters: Cordyceps, a fungus known for boosting stamina and energy, works with caffeine to give you a steady, sustained boost without the crash. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a natural way to increase your energy levels.
What to Look for When Choosing Mushroom Coffee
Now that you know what it is and how good it is for you, let’s talk about how to find the best mushroom coffee. With so many brands popping up, it can be overwhelming, and not all brands are created equal. Here’s what you should consider to find the best mushroom coffee:
Coffee Quality
When choosing mushroom coffee, the first thing to check is whether it’s real, high-quality coffee or just a coffee alternative. If you’re a coffee lover, you probably don’t want to sacrifice flavor for health benefits. Many mushroom coffees skimp on coffee quality, leaving you with a weak or off-tasting blend.
Make sure the coffee base is something you’d enjoy on its own because no amount of mushrooms can hide low-quality coffee. A high-quality coffee starts with the type of bean. Arabica is often preferred over Robusta for its smoother, more complex flavor. Beans grown at higher altitudes, especially shade-grown coffee, tend to be denser and richer in taste due to slower growth.
Roasting and freshness are equally important. Beans roasted to perfection highlight the coffee’s unique flavors without bitterness. And for the best taste, opt for whole beans, as they retain their freshness longer than pre-ground coffee, and grind them just before brewing.
Organic and Sustainable Coffee Sourcing
When it comes to coffee and mushrooms, organic is the way to go. Non-organic products can contain pesticides, which are harmful to your health and the environment. Choosing organic, shade-grown coffee ensures the beans are grown without synthetic chemicals and fertilizers, protecting both you and the ecosystem.
Whenever possible, look for brands that use Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) coffee beans. Regenerative farming ensures that the coffee is grown using sustainable methods that restore soil health, protect ecosystems, and ensure fair treatment of farmers.
Fruiting Bodies vs. Mycelium
Here’s where things get a little science-y. Not all mushroom coffee brands are transparent about the part of the mushroom they use. Some rely on mycelium, which is essentially the root system of the mushroom, grown on grain like rice or oats instead of wood or soil. The final product often contains a mix of mycelium and the grain it's grown on, which can reduce the strength of the beneficial compounds you'd normally get from the actual mushroom itself. It’s cheaper, but far less effective. You want to look for brands that use fruiting bodies – the actual mushroom itself – which contain the highest concentration of beneficial compounds.
Dosage Transparency
Flavor
Mushroom coffee has a reputation for tasting... not great. Many people expect an earthy or bitter flavor, and unfortunately, with some brands, that’s exactly what you get. This often happens when the mushroom extract is not properly blended, or when lower-quality coffee (or no coffee at all) is used as the base.
Peak State Coffee is the world’s first brand to solve the taste issue with our patented whole-bean infusion process. This means you don’t have to choose between coffee that tastes good and coffee that’s good for you. Our mushroom coffee tastes just like regular coffee – bold, smooth, and delicious, and gives you all the benefits of adaptogenic and functional mushrooms
Ready to Try Mushroom Coffee?
If you’re looking for a healthier, smarter way to enjoy your daily cup of coffee, mushroom coffee is worth trying. Whether you want to boost your focus, support your immune system, or just enjoy a less acidic cup of joe, there’s a mushroom coffee out there for you.
And if you want the best of the best – organic, shade-grown, and packed with health-boosting mushrooms – why not start with Peak State Coffee? Our sustainable, whole-bean coffee is infused with all the benefits you’re looking for. Try a bag today and see what all the buzz is about.