Mushroom Cups organic coffe

Health cup in coffee cup

Mushrooms (lat. Fungi) are among the most widespread organisms on Earth. They do not have chlorophyll and therefore do not perform photosynthesis, nor can they move – which is why they form a separate kingdom of life. About 70,000 species are known, and there may be up to 1.5 million in total. Humans have been using them for thousands of years – in diet, fermentation (wine, beer, cheese, bread), but also for medicinal purposes (e.g., antibiotics and immunostimulants).

In Chinese culture, mushrooms have been present for 7,000 years, and the ancient Romans also considered them a delicacy. Today we know that many mushrooms contain compounds that lower cholesterol, regulate blood pressure and sugar, strengthen immunity, improve digestion, act against tumors and viruses, slow aging, and enhance energy and focus.

On these foundations, Mushroom Cups was created, a Croatian start-up founded in 2017, which combined functional mushrooms and coffee – creating a beverage of exceptional nutritional value and recognizable flavor. Although the idea was initially met with skepticism, today Mushroom Cups is recognized as one of the most promising global start-ups in food technology.

Mushrooms cannot simply be ground – their active substances are hidden behind a chitin shell, a natural material that is indigestible. Therefore, dual extraction (heat and alcohol) is used at low temperatures to preserve all vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. This results in a high-quality extract ready for consumption.

The focus is on mushrooms that help convert food into energy and improve cognitive functions, such as:

• Chanterelles – rich in vitamins D and B, promote serotonin production and nerve growth.

• Lion's mane – supports brain health, promotes nerve cell regeneration, reduces anxiety.

• Chaga – a powerful antioxidant, strengthens immunity, slows aging, rich in melanin.

• Cordyceps – enhances libido and energy, increases oxygenation and athletic endurance, adjusts the immune response.

Of the 20 most important drugs of the 20th century, 10 contained compounds from mushrooms – which only confirms their power.

In a world where coffee is consumed daily, combining it with high-value mushrooms seems like a logical step forward.