How Are Mushroom Extracts Made? Water vs. Alcohol vs. Dual Extraction

A hand with a glove holding a mushroom for UsoFungi.

Introduction

Mushroom extracts are essential ingredients in today’s food supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical formulations. They provide concentrated bioactive compounds that are not always present in sufficient amounts in raw mushroom powders. But not all extracts are created the same. The method used — water extraction, alcohol extraction, or dual extraction — determines which compounds are captured, how the extract can be used, and how buyers should evaluate its quality.

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At UsoFungi, we believe in transparency. Understanding extraction methods helps buyers make informed sourcing decisions and ensure compliance with EU regulations.

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Water Extraction (Hot Water)

What It Is

Hot water extraction is the oldest and most widely used technique. Mushrooms are boiled or steeped in hot water to release water-soluble polysaccharides.

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Compounds

Compounds Extracted

  • Beta-glucans (the most important quality marker in mushrooms).
  • Other polysaccharides linked to immune-supporting effects.

Applications

  • Food supplements such as capsules and powders.
  • Functional foods where polysaccharide concentration is desired.

Buyer Tip

Always check the beta-glucan percentage on the Certificate of Analysis (COA). High-quality hot water extracts typically show higher beta-glucan levels with minimal starch content.

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Alcohol Extraction (Ethanol)

What It Is

Alcohol extraction uses ethanol to dissolve non-water-soluble compounds found in mushrooms.

Compounds Extracted

  • Triterpenes (especially in Reishi).
  • Sterols and other fat-soluble compounds.

Applications

  • Tinctures and liquid extracts with strong bitter profiles.
  • Specialized formulations where triterpenes are of interest.

Buyer Tip

Ask whether ethanol residues are tested for. EU compliance requires safe residual solvent levels, verified on a COA.

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Dual Extraction

What It Is

Dual extraction combines hot water and ethanol. Mushrooms are first extracted with one solvent, then the other, to produce a full-spectrum extract.

Compounds Extracted

  • Beta-glucans (water-soluble).
  • Triterpenes and sterols (alcohol-soluble).

Applications

  • Premium supplements that aim for a balanced profile.
  • Cosmetic actives where both polysaccharides and triterpenes provide value.
  • Pharmaceutical-grade extracts requiring standardized potency.

Buyer Tip

Dual extraction usually costs more. Make sure the price reflects true full-spectrum testing (both beta-glucans and triterpenes should appear in the COA).

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Why Extraction Method Matters for Buyers

  • Bioactivity – Different methods emphasize different compounds.
  • Regulatory compliance – EU standards require testing for both bioactives and contaminants.
  • Formulation goals – Powder capsules, tinctures, or cosmetic actives all benefit from different extraction approaches.
  • Transparency – Suppliers should state clearly which method they use and provide batch-specific COAs.

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    What to Ask Your Supplier

    When evaluating mushroom extracts, buyers should request:

    • Extraction method (water, alcohol, dual).
    • Certificates of Analysis with verified beta-glucan and/or triterpene levels.
    • Testing details (AOAC, HPLC, ICP-MS).
    • Compliance with EU safety standards for heavy metals, pesticides, and microbiology.

    At UsoFungi, every product is supported with full documentation, ensuring both traceability and consistency.

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    Conclusion

    Water, alcohol, and dual extraction each offer unique benefits depending on the compounds you need. For formulators and buyers in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, the extraction method is more than a technical choice — it directly impacts product quality, compliance, and consumer trust. By asking the right questions and reviewing reliable COAs, you can ensure your ingredients are both effective and safe.

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