You may have seen Cordyceps mentioned in supplements or wellness products and wondered what it actually is - and whether it’s properly regulated. Our own Mushroom Complex capsules contain cordyceps as one 6 different mushroom species provided in the supplement.
Cordyceps is a type of mushroom that has been used traditionally in various cultures for many years. The species most commonly used in supplements is Cordyceps sinensis, also known by its scientific name Ophiocordyceps sinensis. In modern products, it is typically used in powdered form and added to capsules or blends.
In the UK, all food supplements are regulated. Ingredients must comply with food law, and products cannot be marketed as medicines unless they are licensed as such. There is also a category of regulation called “novel foods”, which applies to ingredients that were not widely consumed before 1997.
Some ingredients fall clearly into that category, while others have a long history of use in supplements. Cordyceps sinensis has been used in UK supplements for many years, and it appears in the European Novel Food Catalogue as permitted for use in food supplements. Although that catalogue is guidance rather than legislation, it helps regulators determine whether an ingredient has a history of consumption.
As with any supplement ingredient, the form matters. Whole mushroom powder is different from highly concentrated extracts or chemically modified compounds. Products sold in the UK must also avoid medicinal claims and comply with strict labelling rules.
At Troo Health, we ensure that all ingredients used in our products are assessed against UK regulations and positioned appropriately. If you ever have questions about how an ingredient is regulated, we’re always happy to explain.
Transparency matters, and understanding how ingredients are assessed helps you make informed choices about the supplements you use.
Leave your comment