Wild fungi: Oceanix Biotechnology sprouts new Chaga mushroom extracts

22 Aug 2023 --- Canadian biotechnology and biopharmaceutical company Oceanix Biotechnology has launched ChagaPure, its latest “wild, standardized, full-spectrum” range of Chaga mushroom extract powders with potent antioxidant abilities to enhance immunity.

ChagaPure is a nutraceutical and pharmaceutical ingredient targeted to major consumer health supplement manufacturers, allowing them to formulate safe, clinically proven and immunity-enhancing products.

The company notes that ChagaPure has demonstrated potent antibacterial antiviral and antifungal properties in clinical trials in Canadian and international laboratories. The extract has an antioxidant Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) value of more than 153,200 µmol TE/100 g, according to analytical tests conducted by Brunswick Labs. 

Bursting with bioactivity
ChagaPure is produced from wild mushrooms harvested from Northern British Columbia, Canada forests, containing some of the highest levels of immuno-stimulatory compounds available.

Oceanix Biotechnology produces sustainable Keyhole Limpet Hemocyanin (KLH) and KLH proteins for the global anti-cancer vaccine and immunotherapy industries. 

ChagaPure contains biologically active substances such as intensely colored water-soluble polyphenol pigments (chromogens) and complex phenolic aldehydes, phenols, oxi phenolic acids, quinines, endo-polysaccharides, hetero-polysaccharides, polysaccharides, beta-glucans, homoglycans, steroids, polyphenols, triterpenoids and antioxidants.ChagaPure has heightened antibacterial and antioxidant properties. 

It also contains various health-promoting micro-minerals, such as potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium, zinc and manganese.

The company also notes that the extract is highly bioactive with a 20 to1 concentration ratio, meaning 20 kg of Chaga produces 1 kg of extract. It is standardized to contain a minimum of 56% polysaccharides with a chromogenic complex of over 51%.

Mushrooming innovation
In 2022, US-based KaraMD launched a mushroom and super greens supplement, Total Clarity, to support cognitive health, focus, energy and immunity. The product also relieves stress, supports the cardiovascular system and promotes general health.

Nutrition Insight previously spoke to Tony Shields, founder and CEO of Canada-based FreshCap, on the main drivers and developments across the mushroom space amid the industry expectation that standards around the quality of mushroom ingredients and products will be more vigorously implemented.

Meanwhile, a “first of a kind” research facility was opened in Estonia, focusing on studying functional mushrooms to increase knowledge and understanding and establishing the country as a global leader in the mushroom space.

Edited by Inga de Jong