"Not All Mushrooms Are Created Equal—Even Within the Same Species”
Mushrooms are often praised for their naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that support overall wellness. But did you know that the nutritional value of mushrooms can vary significantly based on where and how they are grown?
Just like grapes used in winemaking or herbs used in teas, mushrooms are influenced by their growing environment. From the mineral content of the soil to local air and water quality, regional factors play a powerful role in shaping their nutritional profile.
Environmental Elements That Matter
Here are some key environmental conditions that affect the composition of mushrooms:
- Soil Composition: Mushrooms absorb nutrients—and contaminants—from the soil. Rich, balanced soils can contribute to higher levels of naturally occurring minerals like selenium, potassium, and zinc. In contrast, nutrient-poor or polluted soils may yield mushrooms with lower nutritional density or unwanted compounds.
- Water Quality: Clean, uncontaminated water supports the development of mushrooms that reflect the natural elements around them. Water polluted with heavy metals or industrial runoff, however, may lead to undesirable accumulation in the final product.
- Altitude & Climate: Elevation, temperature, and humidity can influence the concentration of bioactive compounds like polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and antioxidants. For example, cooler, shaded environments may support different growth rates and nutrient synthesis compared to hotter, sun-exposed locations.
Why ABM from Brazil Stands Out
Agaricus blazei Murill (ABM), originally discovered in the mountainous regions near Piedade, Brazil, has drawn global attention for its naturally rich composition of bioactive compounds—including polysaccharides, beta-glucans, and ergosterol. What’s unique about Brazilian-grown ABM is not only the clean and mineral-rich soil of the region but also its preservation of the original, non-hybridized strain.
In some countries, commercial cultivation has led to hybridized or genetically modified strains that may differ in composition from the original Brazilian variety. These changes can impact the balance and concentration of key nutrients and active compounds.
Brazilian ABM mushrooms, grown close to their native environment, benefit from:
- Naturally fertile soils low in contaminants
- Pure, unpolluted water sources
- An ideal climate that supports optimal growth cycles
- Non-hybridized strains preserved from their original lineage
As a result, many consider Brazilian-grown ABM to be among the highest quality available worldwide.
Japan's High Standards—and a Commitment to Purity
It’s estimated that over 90% of ABM mushrooms grown in Brazil are exported to Japan, a country known for its strict quality standards and deep respect for food purity. Japan classifies ABM mushrooms using a three-tier quality system:
- Silver Grade: Standard quality, often used in general wellness support.
- Gold Grade: Grown with more stringent controls and higher polysaccharide content.
- Ultra Gold Grade: The highest quality, typically tested for purity, beta-glucan content, and grown under premium environmental conditions.
This grading system reflects not only the physical appearance and nutritional density of the mushroom, but also the care in cultivation, environmental purity, and overall safety.
Desert Forest™ Mushroom Extract: Made from Ultra Gold ABM
At Desert Forest™, our mushroom extract is crafted exclusively from Ultra Gold-grade ABM mushrooms grown in Brazil. These mushrooms are cultivated in pristine soil near the edge of the Atlantic Rainforest—an area known for its low levels of industrial pollution and naturally mineral-rich earth.
By starting with Ultra Gold-grade mushrooms, we aim to preserve the integrity of ABM’s natural compounds and deliver a high-quality extract that reflects the purity of its origin. Every batch is carefully processed with respect for the mushroom’s native profile, without hybridization or synthetic additives.