The “New Year, New You” marketing has already started. Here’s what to look for if you’re going to try new mushroom brands this year. Check out Part 1 on extraction methods and Part 2 on extraction ratios. Detailed sourcing information Look for products that specify not just where their mushrooms are grown (e.g., the US, China, or Finland) but also the growing conditions. Organically grown mushrooms or those cultivated on natural substrates (like wood or sawdust) are better than those grown on grains, which can dilute the final product. Fruiting body vs. mycelium debate If you're serious about potency, favor supplements made from the fruiting body (the actual mushroom). Mycelium-based products often include filler from the growing medium (e.g., grain or rice), which lowers the concentration of beneficial compounds. Some mycelium products may be high-quality if they’re thoroughly tested and grown without fillers. Look for transparency from the company. Verified active compounds High-quality mushroom supplements will list the levels of active compounds like beta-glucans (immune support) or hericenones (brain health). These are the nutrients that give mushrooms their health benefits. If a product only lists "polysaccharides," that’s too vague and can include inactive starches. Third-party testing Lab testing for contaminants (like heavy metals, pesticides, or mold) and potency is essential. Look for brands that publish Certificates of Analysis (COAs), most will provide this upon request. It’s a red flag if they don’t. Clear labeling & ratios Check if the product mentions the concentration ratio, like 10:1 or 15:1. If the product uses blends, make sure they list how much of each mushroom is included—some blends dilute key mushrooms with less effective ones.