ISSUE FOCUS 52 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE January 2025 to provide potent immune support. Turkey Tail has also been shown to support gut health, which can also contribute to healthy immune function4. • Maitake (Grifola frondosa) mushrooms are increasingly recognized for their potential benefits in veterinary health, particularly for their immune-supporting properties. Canine studies have shown that the polysaccharides from Maitake support immune health5,6. • Himematsutake (Agaricus blazei), also known as Agaricus blazei, has been studied for its benefits in enhancing immune function and supporting a healthy inflammatory response in companion animals. The mushroom’s high content of beta-glucans and other bioactive compounds plays a key role in supporting immune health in both dogs and cats7,8. BENEFICIAL NUTRIENTS AND BIOACTIVES Medicinal mushrooms are valued as being a nutrient-dense food. They contain many health-supporting, bioactive compounds such as beta glucans, antioxidants, triterpenes, prebiotics, dietary fibers, vitamins, protein and digestive enzymes. Many mushroom species contain polysaccharide complexes and sterols that can support immune function. But keep in mind that many of these elements are lost in mushroom extracts. In order to provide a full spectrum of nutrients and beneficial compounds, look for ingredients that contain whole milled mushrooms, such as whole mushroom powders. IS ORGANIC IMPORTANT? Mushrooms are amazing bio-accumulators and take in and absorb everything in the environment they are grown in. Because of this, organic cultivation is particularly important for mushroom ingredients. It is also important that the mushrooms are grown in pristine, clean environments. Tremendous innovation is taking place in controlled, indoor mushroom cultivation. Make sure you know the origin and growing methods of functional mushroom ingredients. CERTIFIED INGREDIENTS When incorporating functional mushrooms into pet products, it is crucial to ensure that the ingredients are safe and effective. The National Animal Supplement Council (NASC) provides certification for supplements that meet rigorous standards for quality
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