The global mushroom market was valued at 17.25 million tonnes in 2023 and is anticipated to grow from 18.39 million tonnes in 2024 to 32.04 million tonnes by 2032, registering a CAGR of 7.18% during the forecast period (2024–2032). The Asia Pacific region dominated the global market with a 79.83% share in 2023.
In the United States, the market is projected to witness significant growth, reaching approximately 1.22 million tonnes by 2032. This growth is primarily driven by rising investments by domestic cultivators in advanced farming technologies, coupled with merger and acquisition initiatives by international companies seeking to expand their footprint within the country.
Mushrooms, classified as edible fungi, are commonly grouped with vegetables but are not botanically considered plants. They are nutrient-dense foods, rich in vitamin D, riboflavin, potassium, selenium, and other essential minerals that support human health. Research from both clinical and preclinical studies indicates that regular mushroom consumption contributes to improved immunity, weight management, and overall wellness. Additionally, they may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, such as prostate and breast cancer, further enhancing their global demand.
Information Source: https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/mushroom-market-100197
Impact of COVID-19
Consumer food preferences shifted noticeably during the COVID-19 pandemic. The demand for edible fungi surged as people increasingly sought health-oriented, plant-based foods. However, in the early lockdown phase, restaurant closures and mobility restrictions led to a 50–80% revenue decline for mushroom producers serving the foodservice sector.
As consumers began cooking more at home, demand for fresh and packaged mushrooms rose sharply. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), approximately 816,367 pounds of mushrooms were shipped in 2020, marking a 3% increase in sales value to reach USD 1.15 billion. Brown mushroom sales rose by 3.6%, while specialty mushroom sales increased by 2%, totaling USD 67.4 million. Moreover, the rise of online grocery platforms and the gradual recovery of the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, and Café) sector further accelerated market growth.
Market Segmentation
The mushroom market is segmented by type into button, shiitake, oyster, and other varieties. Based on form, it is categorized into fresh, canned, frozen, and dried mushrooms, each catering to diverse consumer preferences and storage needs. Geographically, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa, reflecting varying consumption patterns, production capacities, and regional culinary applications.
Report Highlights
Market Drivers and Challenges
The growing focus on healthy eating habits is a major catalyst for mushroom consumption, as these fungi are low in fat, high in fiber, and known for their immune-boosting properties. Demand is rising across households, restaurants, and institutional buyers. Ongoing research and development activities are contributing to the introduction of exotic and medicinal mushroom varieties, while global trade has created opportunities for functional and specialty mushroom products.
Conversely, mushroom farming is still labor-intensive, with labor costs accounting for nearly one-third of total production expenses. To mitigate these costs, producers are increasingly adopting automation, robotics, and precision farming technologies. Despite these innovations, high operational costs remain a challenge to large-scale production.
Regional Insights
Asia Pacific is expected to maintain its leading position in the mushroom market, driven by China’s large-scale production capacity and rising consumption across India, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Europe is experiencing steady growth, particularly in Germany, Spain, the U.K., and the Netherlands, where demand for medicinal and specialty mushrooms is increasing. In North America, the market in the U.S. and Canada benefits from advanced cultivation technologies and supportive government policies. Meanwhile, South America, led by Brazil and Argentina, is witnessing expansion fueled by the growing popularity of plant-based diets and processed food products.