India is experiencing a mushroom renaissance, with increased cultivation and consumption fueled by growing health consciousness and the popularity of veganism. Once a niche ingredient, mushrooms are now taking center stage in Indian cuisine and wellness practices. This surge in interest has led to innovative farming methods, the rise of exotic mushroom varieties, and a growing market for mushroom-based products.
Several factors contribute to this mushroom mania. There's a rising awareness of the nutritional benefits of mushrooms, which are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Mushrooms are also recognized as a good source of protein, making them a popular meat substitute for vegetarians and vegans; approximately 30% of vegetarians and 12% of vegans regularly include mushrooms in their diets. Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the trend, as people seek healthier food options to boost their immunity.
This increased demand has spurred growth in the Indian mushroom market. The market was valued at USD 276 million in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 487 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.5% during 2025-2033. While button mushrooms remain the most popular variety due to their versatility and ease of cultivation, there is a growing interest in exotic mushrooms like shiitake, oyster, cordyceps, reishi, lion's mane, and gucchi. Farmers are increasingly cultivating these varieties to cater to diverse consumer preferences and capitalize on their higher market value.
Innovative farming techniques are also contributing to the mushroom boom. Farmers are adopting cost-effective and sustainable methods to increase production. For instance, some are using agricultural waste as a substrate for mushroom cultivation, promoting sustainability. Vertical farming and controlled environment agriculture are also gaining traction, allowing for year-round mushroom production regardless of external weather conditions. Furthermore, the government is supporting mushroom farming through training programs and subsidies, boosting production and empowering farmers.
The rise of mushroom-based products is another key trend. Beyond fresh mushrooms, there is a growing market for dried, pickled, and powdered mushrooms, as well as mushroom extracts and supplements. These products cater to the increasing demand for convenience and health-boosting foods. The processed mushroom market in India is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.1% from 2024 to 2030.
Several entrepreneurs are finding success in mushroom farming. For example, an engineering couple from Uttarakhand founded Planet Mushroom, a brand that grows and sells various exotic mushrooms. Similarly, a Haryana-based professor and her husband generate a monthly revenue of Rs 9 lakh through their mushroom cultivation business. These success stories highlight the potential of mushroom farming as a profitable agribusiness in India.
Despite the positive trends, the Indian mushroom industry faces certain challenges. These include a lack of standardized cultivation practices, high initial investment costs for mushroom farms, and limited awareness among farmers about advanced cultivation techniques. Additionally, the short shelf life of fresh mushrooms poses a challenge for manufacturers and distributors.
Overcoming these challenges will be crucial to sustaining the mushroom mania in India. This can be achieved through greater investment in research and development, promotion of best practices in mushroom cultivation, and enhanced infrastructure for storage and transportation. With continued efforts, India has the potential to become a major player in the global mushroom market.
