The mycelium of the Phoenix oyster mushroom is confirmed as a novel food following a recent consultation by German authorities, but according to an expert, this might not be a bad thing for most formulators and consumers.
Fruiting body extracts, including those from the Phoenix oyster mushroom (Pleurotus pulmonarius), usually do not require EFSA pre-market authorization as novel ingredients. However, most mycelium-derived materials, especially powders, are typically deemed novel foods because they lack a documented history of consumption in the EU before May 1997.
The recent decision reflects its original classification as novel in 2023, meaning Phoenix oyster mushroom mycelium ingredients must continue to undergo a safety assessment and receive regulatory approval before they can be sold.
Robin Gurney, director of the Estonian certified organic mushroom extract supplier Musheez, said that it is clear mycelium ingredients are under close watch, but in this case, it is appropriate that EFSA has made this ruling for consumer protection reasons.
Read more at Nutra Ingredients Europe
