Storage and Shelf-Life of Functional Mushroom Supplements

If you’re like me, you probably have a robust collection of supplements in your kitchen. A huge selection of every supplement under the sun, arguably for every mood and every state of mind.

We don’t always take our supplements consistently and diligently until they run out. So they collect on our shelves, waiting to be remembered once more.

This begs the question, how long do functional mushroom supplements last?

If you happen to be a next-level kind of human and grow your mushrooms, then we’ve still got you covered.

The second part of this article outlines the most effective technique for preserving your functional mushrooms for maximum bioavailability and extended shelf life.

This article is packed with info, let’s get into it!

Understanding Functional Mushroom Supplements

Some functional mushrooms like Lion’s Mane are edible, others are not.

Functional mushroom supplements, like Reishi, Chaga, and Cordyceps, are known for their potential health benefits and are ideally stored for prolonged use.

However, improper storage can compromise the stability of their bioactive compounds, such as polysaccharides and terpenoids. 

To fully enjoy the benefits of these mushrooms, it is crucial to understand proper preservation methods.

Benefits of Mushroom-Based Supplements

Mushroom-based supplements offer a wide range of bioactive compounds such as polysaccharides, terpenoids, and beta-glucans,

Certain mushrooms, like Lion’s Mane, have been studied for their potential to support brain health, memory, and focus.

Functional mushrooms are also known for their immune-supporting properties. Compounds such as beta-glucans, can help modulate the immune system.

The National Library of Medicine reported that: “Molecules in medicinal mushrooms have unique health benefits. According to Durgo et al. (2013), many of these mushrooms have cytotoxic and antioxidative properties, which may allow them to both slow the harmful process of oxidation and eliminate harmful cells.”

Other functional mushroom supplements may have stress-reducing and mood-enhancing effects such as Reishi and Cordyceps. They can help the body adapt to stress and promote a sense of calm and well-being.

In addition to the above, functional mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. 

The wide range of bioactive compounds found within one single functional mushroom is astounding.

Optimal Storage Techniques

To preserve the biological efficacy and maximize the shelf life of functional mushroom supplements, it is crucial to follow optimal storage techniques. 

Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent degradation of bioactive compounds. Use an airtight container to minimize oxygen exposure and prevent contamination.

According to ScienceDirect, mushrooms naturally deteriorate within a day of being harvested, so proper storage is essential for maintaining their integrity and therapeutic potential.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Consistent temperature control is crucial for preserving the quality of functional mushroom supplements.

Fluctuations in temperature can accelerate the degradation of bioactive compounds and reduce their effectiveness.

It is recommended to store your already-dried supplements in a cool environment with a stable temperature. Additionally, controlling humidity is important to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to mold growth and spoilage. Overly humid conditions can invite moisture intrusion and promote mold growth. 

Aim for a humidity level between 30 to 50 percent to sustain the purity and stability of the supplements. Too high or too low humidity can respectively lead to mold growth or the desiccation and diminished effectiveness of beneficial components. 

Temperature Guidelines for Peak Preservation

To ensure peak preservation of your dried functional mushroom supplements, keep in mind these temperature guidelines. 

The optimal storing temperature range for dried mushrooms is typically between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). 

Within this range, the molecular integrity of psilocybin is effectively preserved, ensuring that each microdose retains its full therapeutic promise.

Container Types and Their Impact

Choosing the right storage containers is crucial for preserving the efficacy of your mushroom supplements. 

If you can, opt for amber glass jars or containers that block UV light to protect delicate compounds like psilocybin from light degradation. Ensure airtight seals with screw-top lids or vacuum-sealed containers to prevent oxygen exposure and ingredient oxidation. 

Materials like high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and glass are ideal for preserving supplement quality. HDPE containers offer durability and moisture barrier properties, while glass provides a stable and potent environment for sensitive compounds like psilocybin.

Shelf Life of Functional Mushroom Supplements

When stored properly, functional mushroom supplements can last considerably longer than fresh mushrooms.

Assuming that they have been stored in a cool, dry, and dark place with a silica pack inside the container, functional mushroom supplements can last a year, if not longer. 

Other Factors Affecting Shelf-Life of Functional Mushroom Supplements

Optimal conditions for shelf-life of functional mushroom supplements:

• Storage conditions: A cool, dry place away from heat, humidity, and light.
• Packaging: Airtight packaging to prevent moisture and oxygen exposure and ideally with a silica pack included in the bottle.
• Quality of mushrooms: Farmed by high-quality and reputable mushroom suppliers.
• Manufacturing process: Proper extraction and drying techniques.
• Antioxidant content: Higher antioxidant content can enhance stability and shelf-life.

IF You’ve Grown Your Own Mushrooms

Mushrooms are like little sponges, filled with moisture and magic. Highly perishable typically lasting three days, or one week, at best.

Fresh mushrooms have a short shelf life due to their lack of a cuticle layer. Without this level of protection, they are prone to mechanical damage, water loss, and/or microbial attack.

Meaning that moisture is a major precursor to contamination. 

So if you grow your mushrooms, you will want to preserve them as long as possible with as many bioactive compounds intact as possible.

What is the best way to store the functional mushrooms you’ve grown yourself? Have a read here below.

Various Post-Harvest Preservation Techniques

On an industrial level the methods usually used to extend the shelf life of mushrooms involve cooling and then packaging in plastic trays which are coated with a perforated polyvinyl chloride (PVC) film.

As it turns out, there isn’t just one way to preserve mushrooms. There are 3 main ways: thermal, chemical, or physical.

For this article, I will assume home use and that you don’t have industrial facilities available.

In this case, drying the mushrooms is the best way to go.

It’s achievable, low-cost, and very effective.

Freezing or Refrigerating Functional Mushroom Supplements

Due to mushrooms high water content, freezing or refrigerating functional mushroom supplements is not recommended. Extreme temperatures can degrade the bioactive compounds and nutrients in the supplements. 

Freezing can lead to the formation of ice crystals and damage the delicate structure of the mushrooms, while refrigeration can initiate the breakdown of bioactive compounds and promote mold growth. 

How To Dry Your Edible, Medicinal, and Functional Mushrooms

Here’s a step-by-step guide to drying your edible, medicinal, and functional mushrooms:

1. Clean the mushrooms: Start by gently brushing off any dirt or debris from the mushrooms. Avoid washing them, as excess moisture can hinder the drying process.
2. Slice or separate: Depending on the size of the mushrooms, you can either slice them into thin pieces or separate them into smaller clusters. This will help speed up the drying process and ensure even drying.
3. Air drying: The most traditional method is air drying. Place the mushroom slices or clusters on a clean, dry surface, such as a wire rack or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure there is good airflow around the mushrooms. Leave them in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, until they are completely dry. This process can take several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the humidity levels.
4. Using a dehydrator: If you have a dehydrator, it can be a convenient and efficient way to dry mushrooms. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for temperature and time settings. Spread the mushroom slices or clusters on the dehydrator trays, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Allow the dehydrator to run until the mushrooms are fully dried, typically taking a few hours to a day.
5. Oven drying: If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use your oven on a low heat setting. Preheat the oven to its lowest temperature (usually around 140°F or 60°C). Place the mushroom slices or clusters on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Check the mushrooms regularly and remove them once they are dry and crisp.
6. Store in an airtight container: Once the mushrooms are completely dry, transfer them to an airtight container, such as a glass jar or a resealable bag. Store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture. Properly dried mushrooms can last for several months to a year, retaining their flavor and nutritional value.

Following these steps will remove all the moisture from your mushrooms and extend their shelf life from a week to a year, or longer.

Benefits of Drying Functional Mushrooms

There are several good reasons to dry your edible, functional, or medicinal mushrooms.

Fresh mushrooms last a week, at best. 

Drying functional mushrooms lengthens their shelf life and concentrates their nutrients and bioactive compounds. 

Dried mushrooms are convenient to store long term and also to transport. When dry they are less fragile, and take up less space while less prone to spoilage. 

Also, a bonus is that drying edible mushrooms usually enhances their flavor if you want to start using them as a regular ingredient. 

Identifying Signs of Spoilage

Fresh mushrooms are susceptible to spoilage, so it’s important to be aware of signs indicating potential issues. 

If the mushrooms (or truffles) are fresh and you notice changes in color, smell, or texture, this can be an indication that these mushrooms are no longer safe to consume. 

If there is a pungent smell and/or mold growth or a musty odor may signal bacterial or fungal contamination.

However……

If the functional mushrooms have already been dried and extracted, they could potentially change in color and size but not be spoiled.

For example, if you are supplementing with extracted Lion’s Mane powder and it’s been a hot summer, you might notice that the brown powder within the capsule has shrunk and hardened.

The capsules and the contents are not spoiled or contaminated, just crystallized, like honey.

In short, the contamination of mushroom supplements is not likely if they are dried and extracted correctly.

If you are unsure, please contact our support team at hello@human-pro.com.

What About The Truffles?

The storage and drying guidelines above are for functional and psychoactive mushrooms specifically.

Truffles have a longer shelf life and if kept in the fridge can last up to 2 months and still be fresh.

Due to their longer shelf life, it’s not as paramount for the truffles to be dried out. They can be consumed for up to 8 weeks as a fresh product.

If the truffles need to be stored for more than this period, then drying them is a good option.

To dry truffles, follow the same instructions as mentioned here above.

Also, the signs of spoilage are the same for both truffles and mushrooms (functional or psilocybin)

No Admin, Pure Access

If you’re short on time or not ready to grow your mushrooms, don’t worry.

We offer high-potency, dual extractions of Lion’s Mane, Chaga, Reishi, and Cordyceps. 

Our Mushroom Essentials Complex combines all four functional mushrooms into one convenient capsule.

Stay tuned for a podcast episode featuring a community member’s review of our functional mushrooms.

Don’t miss it! 

As always

Flow strong

Asha ✨