Simon Salter, co-founder of the UK based functional mushroom and wellness brand DIRTEA, reveals the benefits of adding the organic extract to your daily diet.
In 2022, the global functional mushroom market was valued at USD 25.64 billion and is expected to double in size by 2030. However, despite its growing popularity as a well-being supplement to modern diets, there is still little scientific evidence to support the health benefits that many say it brings. Simon Salter, co-founder of DIRTEA, states this is due to mycology being an underserved field with not enough funding in place for sector research. “There are smaller case studies and peer-reviewed papers that have been carried out, but most are vitro studies that haven’t been tested on humans,” he comments. “I am passionate this soon will change, allowing mycologists to undertake further research in understanding more about these hidden warriors from the forest.”
With the evolution of his own brand going from strength-to-strength since its launch in 2021, he goes on to say how the customer experience is undeniable and speaks volumes when analysing the positive impact of mushroom powders. “It’s a natural way to keep your body and mind in peak condition,” he says, “ready for any challenge.” Known to contain a high concentration of antioxidants and micronutrients, mushrooms have always been acknowledged as a healthy addition to any diet, however, Salter goes on to say the magic lies within the cell structure of certain varieties of fungi. “The chitin cell wall—a key cell structure—when carefully extracted, breaks down to reveal treasures like polysaccharides, including beta-glucans,” he reveals. “These compounds can act like adaptogens, helping the body to adapt to stress, maintaining a state of readiness.” He also alludes to Lion’s Mane, a variety known as the smart mushroom, which contains hericenones and erinacines – both conducive to achieving focus while feeling more relaxed.
While DIRTEA has only been in existence for a little over two years, Simon and his brother have been captivated by the powers of functional mushrooms since 2016 after experiencing the benefits of them in their own personal lives. Following years of research, the duo wanted to bring their experience to a wider audience with a mission of enriching lifestyles through innovation, quality, and taste. Now offering a wide range of powders which can be simply added to foods and beverages, alongside blends of mushroom coffee, cacao and matcha, the journey has just begun. “We are only getting started,” says Salter, “but the engagement we get both online and offline has been incredible and we now have close to 800k followers.” Already stocked in retailers such as Selfridges, Boots and Planet Organic, the team have big plans to expand their reach even further. “We have now opened globally in a few territories including the US and UAE with more to come,” he continues. “And, in 2024, we will be announcing some very big news, as well as more partnerships and some incredibly exciting new products!”
With our lives being busier than ever before, alongside increased distraction from the enveloping world of social media, the need for clarity and focus is vital as we become used to hybrid and flexible working models. As further research continues to uncover solid proof that mushrooms can be part of the solution towards increased productivity, the increasing interest in them is undeniable. While many brands are now selling a variety of mushroom-based products, time will tell to see if this goes beyond a short-lived fad.
However, in merging them with great-tasting beverages, experimenting with the effects of mushrooms has never been easier. “If you’re sceptical, play with the idea,” Salter encourages, while also mentioning how we share close to 54% of our DNA with mushrooms. “They are packed full of goodness to improve the full spectrum of your wellbeing, so what’s to lose?” And we’re inclined to agree. If it is to aid productivity, focus, rest, and energy, without the crash that can come with caffeine, it certainly does present a pathway towards unlocking a healthier, and more creative, workday – something we all continually strive for.
Imagery courtesy of DIRTEA.
