Is Mushroom Coffee good for you? Benefits, side effects, and market insights

Mushroom coffee is gaining popularity as a functional beverage that combines traditional coffee with medicinal mushrooms. This blend aims to offer the stimulating effects of caffeine along with the potential health benefits of mushrooms.

What is mushroom coffee?

Mushroom coffee is a beverage made by combining ground coffee beans with extracts of medicinal mushrooms such as lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, and cordyceps. These mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine for their potential health benefits. The resulting drink typically has a flavor profile similar to regular coffee but may have a slightly earthy undertone depending on the type and amount of mushroom extract used.

Market trends and consumer insights

In 2025, the global mushroom coffee market continues its upward trajectory, driven by increasing consumer interest in functional and health-oriented beverages.​ 

According to a report by The Business Research Company, the market size is projected to grow from USD 2.72 billion in 2024 to USD 2.91 billion in 2025, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% (The Business Research Company, 2025).​

Consumer interest is also evident in online search behavior. Yelp reported an 87% increase in searches for "mushroom coffee" in 2024 compared to the previous year, indicating a growing curiosity and demand for this product (Yelp, 2025).​

Demographic trends show that millennials and heavy coffee drinkers are particularly drawn to mushroom coffee. A survey by The New Consumer found that 38% of millennials and 24% of individuals who consume four or more cups of coffee daily find the concept of mushroom coffee very appealing (The New Consumer, 2025).​

These trends suggest a robust and growing market for mushroom coffee, fueled by health-conscious consumers seeking alternative and functional beverage options.​

Is Mushroom Coffee good for you?

Mushroom coffee combines the benefits of coffee and medicinal mushrooms. While coffee provides caffeine, which can enhance alertness and concentration, the added mushrooms may offer additional health benefits. However, individual responses can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand the health implications of consuming mushroom coffee.

Potential benefits of mushroom coffee include:​

• Cognitive enhancements: Lion’s mane mushroom is believed to support brain health and cognitive function.​

• Immune system support: Chaga and Reishi mushrooms are known for their antioxidant properties, which may help strengthen the immune system.​

• Stress reduction: Reishi is considered an adaptogen, potentially helping the body cope with stress.​

• Anti-inflammatory effects: some mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that may benefit overall health.​

• Lower caffeine content: mushroom coffee often contains less caffeine than regular coffee, which may reduce the likelihood of jitters or sleep disturbances.

What are the side effects of mushroom coffee?

Although mushroom coffee is generally considered safe, it’s not entirely free of potential side effects. People who are sensitive to mushrooms may experience allergic reactions. Some might also notice digestive discomfort, such as bloating or nausea, particularly if they’re not used to consuming functional mushrooms. It’s also important to be mindful of possible interactions with medications; certain mushrooms can interfere with blood thinners or immunosuppressants. Additionally, chaga, a common ingredient in these blends, is naturally high in oxalates, which could pose a risk for individuals prone to kidney stones.

Market solutions

In the UK, mushroom coffee is gaining traction among wellness-focused consumers. The startup Spacegoods launched “Rainbow Dust,” a blend of adaptogenic mushrooms and nootropics, now distributed nationally through Boots, with projected revenues of £10 million in its first year (The Guardian, 2024).

In the US, Ryze has established itself as one of the leading mushroom coffee brands. Its blend combines six functional mushrooms with a moderate caffeine dose (48 mg), offering sustained energy without the typical crash or jitters. In 2025, Ryze saw a 26% increase in search interest, reaching 540,000 monthly searches (Glimpse, 2025).

Another notable example is the Chagaccino, a drink made with coffee, chaga mushrooms and cacao, offered by spots like Elephants Delicatessen. It’s positioned as a healthier alternative to the mocha, with a more stable energy boost and antioxidant benefits (Elephants Delicatessen, 2024).

These examples show how mushroom coffee is gaining a solid foothold in English-speaking markets, thanks to growing consumer demand and innovative product offerings.

Mushroom coffee offers a unique combination of traditional coffee and medicinal mushrooms, potentially providing various health benefits. However, individual experiences may vary, and it's essential to consider personal health conditions and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary. As with any supplement or dietary change, it's important to make informed decisions based on reliable information and personal health needs.