Mushroom coffee has definitely had a moment. It’s the latest buzzword in health circles (and even outside of them), 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 on social media ads. 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 soil. We’re here to help break down how to find mushroom coffee that tastes great, is high quality, 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 (which you may already drink), you get the boost of caffeine, plus the extra health perks from the mushrooms. It lets you get more from your morning cup.
The problem is - there are many different products that all call themselves 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 are coffee alternatives and offer no coffee at all – just mushrooms. While others that do contain coffee often compromise on quality, meaning the coffee is not exactly great (usually a spray-dried instant coffee).
But to get the most benefit, and the best flavor, there’s another option – and we believe it’s the best of both worlds - high-quality coffee infused with functional and adaptogenic mushrooms (and we do this with our patented process). This gives the best-tasting and healthiest option for coffee drinkers.
Does Mushroom Coffee Have Coffee In It?
Whether mushroom coffee has coffee in it depends on the brand. Read the ingredients carefully to determine the formula. Many mushroom coffee brands state that coffee is bad for you – and that can be true. Conventional coffee has a lot of issues. Sun-grown coffee is harsher on the body and much more acidic, and many pesticide-grown coffees upset the stomach.
While mushroom coffee brands like to point out how coffee is bad, they’re forgetting that organic, low acid, sustainably grown coffee options are much gentler on the stomach and nervous system - not to mention delicious. At Peak State, we don’t think you should have to choose between having your coffee and your mushrooms too.
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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 your morning cup, or the quality of flavor for health benefits. Many mushroom coffees skimp on coffee quality, leaving you with a weak or burnt-tasting blend. Many also add a ton of sugar just to make it palatable, which negates the health benefits.
Make sure the coffee base is something you’d enjoy on its own because no amount of mushrooms or sweetener 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. Conventional 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, and resulting in a smoother and more nutrient-rich cup.
If sustainability is important to you, 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. Peak State is the world’s first and only Regenerative Organic Certified Mushroom Coffee.
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 with health benefits. Our mushroom coffee tastes just like specialty, craft coffee – bold, smooth, and delicious, and gives you all the benefits of adaptogenic and functional mushrooms in every cup.
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, award-winning, 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.
