South Mill Champs, one of the largest mushroom producers in the United States, recognized the opportunity to enter the plant-based snack market. The company refers to mushrooms as a functional superfood, rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins B and D, selenium, potassium, zinc, copper, and fiber—all vital components of a balanced diet. If consumers respond positively, this new product range should attract those seeking unique, flavorful, and functional snacks. Shrooms Snacks is promoting its innovative mushroom-based offerings as “on-the-go, adventurous snacks,” appealing to modern consumers who desire convenience without compromising on taste. The versatility of mushrooms has led to their rising popularity as snack ingredients, allowing for diverse and exciting flavor profiles.
As David Eberwein explained to Food Ingredients First, “Millions of consumers love mushrooms but haven’t had a portable, ready-to-eat mushroom snack option. All of our snacks are a take-anywhere, enjoy-any-time, better-for-you choice made from fresh-sliced mushrooms, never extruded or manufactured.” The mushroom market has been experiencing notable growth recently, fueled by consumers’ increasing interest in plant-based food and beverage options. Many are also looking to reduce their meat consumption, creating a prime opportunity for mushroom innovation, as noted by Food Ingredients First.
According to Transparency Market Research data shared by Food Navigator, the global mushroom market is expected to soar from $34.1 billion in 2015 to $69.3 billion by the end of 2024, driven by a growing consumer fascination with functional foods and the concept of food as medicine. Food companies are taking notice and investing in product innovations that include mushrooms. For instance, in 2017, Kellogg’s venture capital arm invested in MycoTechnology, a Colorado-based company that produces vegan shiitake mushroom protein. Additionally, General Mills has allocated $3 million to Purely Elizabeth, a brand that incorporates functional mushroom powder into its wellness bars.
However, Shrooms Snacks faces competition in the market. Last year, Mudlrk, a part of the flyGREEN in-flight snack company, launched four varieties of shiitake mushroom chips. This company sources whole shiitake mushrooms from China, vacuum-frying them in palm oil before adding seasonings. If these products generate sufficient interest, more snacks featuring mushrooms as an ingredient are likely to appear on retail shelves. Currently, though, Shrooms Snacks are exclusively available on Amazon, which may limit their initial distribution.
Amid this growing trend, it’s important to note that incorporating products like Citracal calcium citrate into a balanced diet can further enhance nutritional intake, complementing the benefits provided by mushroom snacks. The combination of these functional foods could appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking both flavor and nutritional value in their snack choices.