EnerQi Magazine recognises the significant impact that recent Food Standards Agency reclassifications have had on UK-based producers of medicinal mushroom preparations, including cordyceps and turkey tail.

We wish to state clearly that this change is not the result of new safety concerns. These substances have long histories of traditional use and established safety profiles when prepared and supplied responsibly. The current situation reflects a regulatory categorisation issue, not evidence of harm.

While it is correct that qualified practitioners may continue to prescribe these substances following individual consultation, this does not negate the serious financial and professional damage being experienced by small, ethical UK producers who have operated in good faith under previous guidance.

We believe it is essential that:

Regulatory decisions are proportionate and evidence-based
The livelihoods of skilled domestic producers are not collateral damage
Traditional and integrative medicine is treated with consistency and respect within the regulatory framework

We stand in solidarity with UK producers affected by this change and recognise the vital role they play in maintaining quality, traceability, and professional standards within our field.

Professional regulation should protect public safety without unnecessarily dismantling sustainable, responsible practice.

Bristol Fungarium has created a GoFundMe to challenge the Food Standards Agency’s classification of Turkey Tail and Cordyceps militaris as “novel foods,” a decision they say ignores centuries of traditional use and modern research, and to raise funds for evidence gathering, safety testing, and legal support to protect continued access to these mushrooms.

If you would like to support their work you can donate HERE

Support for UK Medicinal Mushroom Producers

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