MushUp, a Montreal company
MushUp was born from a love of coffee and a passion for medicinal plants. This Montreal-based company is guided by the belief that health begins with nutrition. This unique beverage, capable of integrating the benefits of medicinal mushrooms from our forests, is part of our most precious daily routine: coffee.
There Founder Maëva and her partner Isabelle work exclusively with local micro-roasters and mycologists. They ensure that MushUp's eco-responsible values and mission are always represented through the taste and design of this premium coffee, capable of supporting the daily challenges of its fans.
How does MushUp differentiate itself from other roasters in Montreal?
Following an internship in herbalism and mycology in 2017, followed by meeting experts in medicinal mushrooms, they became aware of the positive impact of mushrooms on our bodies, and wondered if the production of mushroom coffee would be possible.
After months of research, questions, tests, experiments and tastings, MushUp was born!
The brand now offers 4 distinct coffees with unique notes and benefits (which don't taste like mushrooms!): VIGOR, VITAL, SPARK And DECAF.
And what is mushroom coffee made of?
MushUp works with local roasters who are recognized experts in their field. All their coffee beans are certified organic and fair trade. The organic mushrooms are produced, harvested, and processed 100% locally in Montreal.
The processing involves a triple extraction to maximize their medicinal properties. Their coffees are therefore unique, custom-roasted, and designed to offer the best experience with your cup of coffee.
Whether you prefer dark, medium, or strong coffees, there's something for everyone. And rest assured, MushUp coffee doesn't taste like mushrooms :)
What mushrooms are used?
CORDYCEPS (CORDYCEPS SINENSIS)
This mushroom is known for its stimulating and invigorating properties—both for physical energy and libido. Cordyceps can help the body use oxygen more efficiently and improve blood circulation. This can be particularly helpful for athletes or those who work out regularly. This mushroom has been shown not only to improve exercise and athletic performance, but also to speed up muscle recovery after training.
Fungus present in coffees:
REISHI (GANODERMA LUCIDUM)
Used in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, this favorite mushroom is one of the most popular medicinal mushrooms, and for good reason! Reishi, nicknamed the King of Mushrooms, can do it all: aid weight loss, keep the immune system strong, and even fiercely fight cancer cells.But what makes this mushroom unique is its calming power, thanks to the triterpene compound, which reishi contains in large quantities. These mood-boosting compounds can relieve anxiety and depression, and promote better sleep. But the positive effect of triterpenes on the nervous system doesn't stop there. Reishi can also promote healing and sharpen concentration.
Fungus present in coffees:
CHAGA (INONOTUS OBLIQUUS)
Chaga, known as the Queen of Mushrooms, is a powerful antioxidant, making it an excellent candidate for fighting free radicals and inflammation. Growing only in southern forests, including Quebec, dark brown and camouflaged on the trunks of certain trees, this mushroom fights oxidative stress (linked to skin aging), prevents or slows cancer growth, and lowers low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad" cholesterol. All studies point to the significant benefits of this mushroom for humans—both indoors and outdoors.
Fungus present in coffees:
CORYOLUS/TURKEY TAIL (VERSICOLOR TRAMETES)
Most of the medicinal mushrooms listed here exhibit anticancer properties due to their high antioxidant content. But Coriolus goes even further. Coriolus contains a compound called polysaccharide-K (PSK) that stimulates the immune system. PSK is so effective that it's an approved prescription anticancer drug in Japan. Coriolus has been shown to improve survival rates for people with certain cancers, fight leukemia cells, and improve the immune system of people receiving chemotherapy.
Fungus present in cafes:
HEDGEHOG HYDNA/LION'S MANE (HERICIUM ERINACEUS)
Lion's Mane, often referred to as "lion's mane," promotes natural mental clarity. It is known among Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients as a cognitive enhancer, helping with focus and memory. This "pom-pom"-like mushroom is packed with antioxidants and, like most medicinal mushrooms, boosts the immune system. Lion's Mane also promotes the production of bioproteins, nerve growth factor (NGF), and myelin (which insulates and protects nerve fibers), leading to greater productivity and stimulating creativity.
Fungus present in coffees:
So what effects does this amazing mixture bring?
MushUp mushroom-based coffee recipes help reduce the natural acidity of coffee, significantly reducing heart rate, and enhancing the bean's original flavors. All this, in addition to being an overall healthier beverage, boosting the immune system, cognitive function, and/or physical performance.
And in more detail?
Spark - Your best idea
Supports the neurological system, thus improving creativity, concentration, memory and productivity.
Roasting : Medium-dark espresso coffee
Mushrooms : Reishi + Lion's mane
Origins : Peru - Sidamo
Aromas : Elegant - floral - cocoa
Plus, this excellent medium-dark, Italian-roasted, lightly full-bodied coffee is simply delicious as an espresso, macchiato or latte.
Vigor - Surpass yourself!
Ideal for athletes, it improves performance, strength and physical endurance.
Roasting : 3rd wave brown coffee
Mushrooms : Reishi + Cordyceps
Origins : Guatemala - Honduras - Ethiopia
Aromas : Robust - aromas of berries - bright
This brown coffee from third wave is just as delicious in espresso as in a dripper, we detect its various fruity aromas and we taste the terroir of the hand-picked beans.
Vital - Your body thanks you
Packed with detoxifying and antioxidant properties, this tonic also strengthens the immune system.
Roasting : Medium espresso
Mushrooms : Reishi + Chaga + Turkey tail
Origins : Nicaragua - Ethiopia
Aromas : Citrus - harmonious - woody
This Italian roasted coffee is simply exquisite in espresso, flat white and macchiato; allowing you to truly appreciate this ancestral roasting technique, with expertly balanced notes.
Decaf - Caffeine-free, more well-being
Antioxidant properties, nourishes the body and mind by strengthening cognitive and physical functions.
Roasting : Medium-dark decaffeinated espresso
Mushrooms : Reishi + Lion's Mane + Cordyceps
Origins : 100% Mexico
Aromas : Black cherry - roasted hazelnuts - caramel
MushUp's DECAF is truly an all-in-one, ensuring that no caffeine interferes with the pleasure and benefits of a good cup of coffee. In addition to being organic and fair trade, this decaf coffee provides all the energy we need to complete the day's missions without disturbing the warrior's rest.This new coffee is here to reconcile you with decaffeinated coffee thanks to its natural water process, rich and complex in taste.
Source texts & photos: mushup.ca
