Shiitake Mycelium Extract
シイタケ菌糸体エキス (Shiitake Kinshitai Ekisu)
Why source from Japan
Lentinan and LEM standardisation methods originated in Japanese pharmacology research; domestic producers maintain 30+ year lineage in mycelium-specific bioreactor cultivation.
Key spec
Beta-1,3 / 1,6-glucan 25-50% in standardised LEM; lentinan content varies by extraction; proteoglycan complex distinct from fruiting-body materials.
Typical end-product
Immune-support supplements, adjuvant nutraceuticals, premium functional food drinks.
At a glance
- Suppliers listed
- 2 suppliers
- Typical MOQ
- 1–10 kg powder; 100 g – 1 kg standardised LEM
- Typical lead time
- 10–14 weeks
- Regions of origin
- Mie, Gifu, Niigata
- Category
- Medicinal plants
- Harvest season
- Year-round (controlled bioreactor cultivation)
- Japan regulatory status
- FFC notifications exist (immune support); food product status
- Japanese name
- シイタケ菌糸体エキス
- Romaji
- Shiitake Kinshitai Ekisu
About this ingredient
Hot-water extract of cultured shiitake mycelium, distinct from the fruiting body in active-ingredient profile. Japanese R&D has standardised lentinan and LEM (Lentinula Edodes Mycelium extract) preparations since the 1980s for immune-support positioning. Major industrial producers in Mie, Gifu, and Niigata supply both supplement and functional-food markets, with substantial export to North American and European immune-positioned supplement brands. Distinct from shiitake-fruiting-body extracts (which are part of the existing 'shiitake-functional' trend coverage).
Regulatory status
| Japan | FFC notifications exist (immune support); food product status |
|---|---|
| EU | Novel Food consideration for non-pre-1997 EU history; verify EFSA |
| United States | DSHEA NDI for supplement use; GRAS for traditional shiitake |
| China | NMPA / TCM context; verify import classification |
Looking for alternatives?
Common reasons buyers swap to a different ingredient — and what we'd suggest based on this ingredient's profile.
Vegan / plant-based alternatives
Shiitake Mycelium Extract is animal-derived. If you need a non-animal source with similar functions, consider:
Japanese Reishi Mushroom
日本産霊芝
Ganoderma lucidum; Ganoderma japonicum source; FFC notification(s) on file; MOQ from 100 g – 10 kg.
Plant-based· shares 3 categories
Yomogi (Japanese Mugwort)
ヨモギ
Artemisia princeps (mainland) / Artemisia indica (Okinawan Fuchiba) source; INCI Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract; MOQ from 1-100 kg (dried); 100 g – 10 kg (extract).
Plant-based· shares 2 categories
Dokudami (Houttuynia Cordata)
ドクダミ
Houttuynia cordata source; INCI Houttuynia Cordata Extract; MOQ from 100 g – 10 kg (extract); 1-100 kg (dried).
Plant-based· shares 2 categories
Easier EU regulatory path
Shiitake Mycelium Extract faces a more restrictive regulatory pathway in EU. These alternatives have a simpler status in that market:
Sasa Bamboo Leaf Extract
クマザサエキス
Alkaline polysaccharide 5-15%; chlorophyll-derived bioactives 0.5-2%; minimal allergen profile.
Simpler in EU· shares 3 categories
Yomogi (Japanese Mugwort)
ヨモギ
Artemisia princeps (mainland) / Artemisia indica (Okinawan Fuchiba) source; INCI Artemisia Princeps Leaf Extract; MOQ from 1-100 kg (dried); 100 g – 10 kg (extract).
Simpler in EU· shares 2 categories
Dokudami (Houttuynia Cordata)
ドクダミ
Houttuynia cordata source; INCI Houttuynia Cordata Extract; MOQ from 100 g – 10 kg (extract); 1-100 kg (dried).
Simpler in EU· shares 2 categories
When does it make sense to swap an ingredient? Read the swap guide →
Japanese suppliers
Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd.
協和発酵バイオ株式会社
TokyoEst. 2008English supportExport experienceGMP (pharmaceutical-grade)LEM (Lentinula Edodes Mycelium) extract
Oryza Oil & Fat Chemical Co., Ltd.
オリザ油化株式会社
Ichinomiya, AichiEst. 1954English supportExport experienceBeta-glucan-standardised LEM
Disclaimer
Japan Ingredient Sourcing Platform introduces overseas buyers to Japanese ingredient manufacturers. The platform is an information service only and is not a party to any purchase, supply, or manufacturing contract between buyer and seller.
Information shown — including company details, product descriptions, regions of origin, minimum order quantities, lead times, certifications, and regulatory references — is compiled primarily from publicly available sources and manufacturer websites. Specifications change without notice; buyers are expected to verify current specifications, pricing, certification status, and regulatory compliance directly with each manufacturer before placing orders or signing contracts.
The platform operator is not licensed to provide legal, regulatory, customs, tax, or professional advice. References to third-party companies, products, certifications, trademarks, and geographical indications (GI) are factual and do not imply endorsement, sponsorship, or affiliation. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Last updated: 2026-05-05