The Muscle Mag
The recent ex vivo studies conducted by the company have revealed the positive impact of various mushroom species on gut health. These findings are promising for food and beverage formulators who are in search of prebiotic ingredients.
The studies have shown that M2’s mushrooms significantly increase the population of beneficial gut bacteria, which is essential for overall digestive health. Additionally, they stimulate the production of butyrate, a fatty acid that is crucial for protecting the gut lining and reducing inflammation. Julie Daoust, Chief Scientific Officer at M2 Ingredients, stated during IFT FIRST in Chicago last week that the company is planning to publish a human clinical study to evaluate prebiotic activity for enhancing microbiome and brain-gut activity in the upcoming fall.
Furthermore, each variety of mushroom seemed to enhance the growth of different beneficial bacteria strains, providing a diverse range of options for targeted gut health applications. Daoust also mentioned that M2’s proprietary blend of 10 mushroom species has shown positive effects on the microbiome.
Daoust emphasized that digestive health is a key focus area for many food companies, and M2 wanted to ensure they had the research to support their customers in the food industry. She highlighted the versatility of mushrooms, which allows M2’s customers to explore various application options such as mushroom coffee, oatmeal, soups, and bone broth.
Proprietary, science-backed strains for health solutions
The increasing consumer demand for functional beverages and food products aligns with the offerings of M2 Ingredients, which include exclusive strains of Lion’s Mane, reishi, cordyceps, turkey tail, antrodia, chaga, royal sun agaricus, king trumpet, maitake, and shiitake. The company also provides customized blends to meet specific formulation and functional needs such as cognitive health, sports performance, immune health, digestive health, and overall wellness.
M2 Ingredients offers a variety of mushroom types with unique flavor profiles. For example, Lion’s Mane has a neutral taste suitable for beverages, while reishi’s slightly bitter notes complement coffee and chocolate applications. Daoust mentioned that Lion’s Mane, cordyceps, reishi, and turkey tail are the company’s top-selling varieties.
M2 Ingredients scales up to meet customer needs
The growing popularity of functional mushrooms has led M2 Ingredients to invest in significant expansion. Their newly opened facility in Vista, Calif., featuring a modular design, has doubled production capacity and allows for future expansion opportunities according to Daoust.
