While fungus may seem like an odd or unappealing coffee ingredient, Unrest Roasters' Blue Hill Blend is infused with Chaga mushroom -- a parasitic that is commonly found on tree bark. "Chaga has a long history in the folk medicine of northern peoples from Scandinavia to Russia to the colder regions of North America," says Modern Farmer about the unexpected ingredient.
The wild fungus is also said to have detoxifying properties and is seen as a natural antioxidant that helps boost the metabolism. This fungus-infused coffee blend by Unrest Roasters is reflective of the coffee industry's recent sustainable shift. Appealing to both eco and health-conscious consumers, this brand mixes its Chaga ingredients with fair trade beans from Sumatra.
Fungus-Based Coffee Blends
Unrest Roasters' Blue Hill Blend Boast Chaga Mushroom Ingredients
Trend Themes
1. Mushroom-infused Beverages - There is an opportunity for more product development and innovation in creating drinks that incorporate detoxifying and healthy mushroom ingredients like Chaga.
2. Sustainable Coffee Industry - Inclusion of sustainable and organic ingredients in coffee blends creates an opportunity for businesses to appeal to the eco-conscious and health-conscious consumers.
3. Functional Foods - Including ingredients that provide functional health benefits in food and beverages creates an opportunity for businesses to tap into the growing demand for natural and healthy options.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - The food and beverage industry has an opportunity to explore the use of functional and sustainable ingredients, like Chaga mushroom, to create unique and healthy products.
2. Coffee Industry - The coffee industry has an opportunity to innovate and differentiate itself by creating sustainable and healthy blends that incorporate natural ingredients like Chaga mushroom.
3. Wellness Industry - Incorporating superfoods like Chaga mushroom that provide functional health benefits into products can create an opportunity for businesses in the rapidly growing wellness industry.