Crispy mushrooms with a bit of protein

Do Mushrooms Have Protein? Nutritional Facts + Top Picks

Written by: Hamilton Pevec

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Published on

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Time to read 6 min

Mushrooms are everywhere—from Michelin-starred kitchens to protein-packed meal preps. They’re low in calories, rich in umami, and now showing up in everything from coffee to supplements.


But one question keeps popping up:

Do mushrooms have protein?


The answer is yes—but it’s more nuanced than you might think.


In this blog, we’ll break down how much protein different mushrooms actually contain, whether they can support your fitness goals, and how they stack up nutritionally next to other common plant-based foods. You’ll also learn which mushrooms are highest in protein, how to use them, and whether they’re worth considering as part of a bulking or clean-eating routine.


Let’s separate the fiber from the fluff.

The Essentials | TL;DR

  • Mushrooms contain small amounts of plant-based protein

  • Dried mushrooms are more protein-dense than fresh

  • They’re rich in fiber, B vitamins, and antioxidants

  • Great as a low-calorie, high-volume base for clean eating

  • For performance and recovery, use mushroom extract powders, not whole mushrooms


Yes—mushrooms have protein, but not a lot. Raw mushrooms average around 2–3g per 100g, with dried varieties like shiitake and oyster offering much more. They’re not a complete protein source, but they’re a smart way to add volume, fiber, and nutrients to any meal—especially when paired with high-protein foods or used as functional extracts for recovery and resilience.

Do Mushrooms Have Protein?

Yes—mushrooms do have protein. But not all mushrooms are created equal, and how they’re prepared matters just as much as which variety you choose.

How Much Protein in Mushrooms?

On average:

  • Raw white mushrooms have about 3 grams of protein per 100 grams

  • Cooked mushrooms shrink down and concentrate slightly

  • Dried mushrooms can pack up to 20–25 grams of protein per 100 grams depending on the species

That means if you’re asking, “Does mushroom have protein?” or “How much protein in mushrooms?”—the answer depends on form, type, and serving size.

Mushroom Protein Content at a Glance

Mushroom Species Form Protein (per 100g)
White Button Raw ~2.89g
Portobello Raw ~2.75g
Shiitake Raw ~2.41g
Oyster Dried ~2.9g
Lion's mane Raw ~2.5g

Note: Protein content can vary based on factors like cultivation methods, preparation, and specific mushroom strains. Dried mushrooms generally have higher protein concentrations due to reduced water content.

But It’s Not Just About Protein Grams

While mushrooms do contain protein, they’re not a complete source like eggs or meat. That said, they’re incredibly nutrient-dense, low in calories, and work well alongside other protein-rich foods.


So yes—mushrooms have protein, but think of them as a bonus in your plate, not the protein anchor.

Mushroom meal on a plate

Nutritional Value Beyond Protein

While mushrooms are often praised for their flavor and texture, they also deliver a range of nutritional benefits that make them more than just a culinary afterthought.

Do Mushrooms Have Fiber?

Yes. Mushrooms naturally contain fiber—particularly:

  • Beta-glucans, which support immune health and help modulate inflammation

  • Chitin, a unique structural fiber found in fungal cell walls

  • Prebiotic compounds that feed beneficial gut bacteria

Depending on the variety, mushrooms offer 1–2.5 grams of fiber per 100g.

What About Calories?

Most mushrooms are low in calories—roughly 20–30 calories per 100g. This makes them a smart addition to high-volume, low-calorie meal plans or clean bulking diets.


Stay tuned for our upcoming blog: [[Calories in Mushrooms]]

Other Nutritional Highlights

Mushrooms are a rich source of:

  • B vitamins like riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid

  • Trace minerals including selenium, copper, and potassium

  • Ergothioneine, a rare antioxidant found almost exclusively in mushrooms

So while the protein in mushrooms may be modest, their fiber, micronutrient, and antioxidant content make them a powerful addition to any balanced diet.

mushrooms with a high protein steak

Are Mushrooms a Smart Way to Add Protein?

Mushrooms aren’t a high-protein food—but they’re a strategic one.


With about 2–3 grams per 100g (in raw form), mushrooms won’t replace your steak and eggs—but they do make your plate smarter.


Here’s why:

They Add Protein Without Calories

Mushrooms are incredibly low-calorie and fat-free, which means you can add protein and volume without disrupting your macros.

Their Protein Is Functional

The proteins in mushrooms aren’t just fuel—they’re often bound to immune-modulating compounds, like beta-glucans and lectins. You’re getting amino acids + physiological effects.

Learn more about "functional" mushrooms in our blog: Types of Mushrooms: What Makes Functional Mushrooms Unique

They Boost the Plant-Based Plate

Mushrooms combine well with grains, legumes, and soy—making them perfect for anyone building a complete protein profile on a plant-forward diet.

Culinary Bonus

They take on flavor, mimic meat textures, and bulk up meals—making it easier to add volume and satisfaction without leaning on ultra-processed protein powders.



Bottom line? Mushrooms won’t win the protein contest—but they’re a powerful sidekick for people who want more out of every bite.

Which Mushrooms Actually Matter for Protein Goals?

If you’re trying to use mushrooms as part of a protein-forward lifestyle, you don’t need more stats. You need to know which forms actually help—and how to use them.


Here’s the breakdown:

Best for Culinary Protein: Dried Oyster or Shiitake

  • These mushrooms deliver the highest protein per gram in real-world meals
  • Use them in soups, broths, risottos, or rehydrate for stir-fries
  • Great for whole-food plant-based eaters who want texture + density

Best for Texture and Meal Volume: Portobello + Lion’s Mane

  • These mushrooms are meaty, filling, and easy to grill, stuff, or roast
  • While not protein powerhouses, they’re ideal for clean bulking or adding satisfying volume with few calories
  • Discover our favorite Lion's mane recipe here: Best Lion's mane Mushroom Recipe: Crispy Crab Cakes

Best for Functional Support: Extract Powders (Not Protein)

  • If you’re using mushrooms to support focus, recovery, or stress, skip the food and use mushroom extract powders
  • Our blends (like Mind Mix and Body Blend) aren’t meant to replace protein—they’re built to upgrade what your protein can’t do: restore, regulate, and rewire

Skip These if You’re Chasing Protein Alone:

  • “Mushroom protein” supplements that don’t disclose sourcing
  • Mycelium-on-grain blends with little functional or protein value
  • Anything calling itself “mushroom meat” without actual numbers

Final Thoughts: Smart Protein Pairing

Mushrooms aren’t the new chicken breast—but they are one of the smartest foods you can add to a protein-forward diet.


They deliver:

  • Modest amounts of clean, plant-based protein

  • Prebiotic fiber and immune-regulating polysaccharides

  • Critical micronutrients like selenium, B vitamins, and copper

  • A low-calorie way to add texture, bulk, and satiety to meals

And if you’re looking beyond macros—into focus, stamina, or recovery—mushrooms shine even brighter in concentrated extract form.


Whether you’re sautéing shiitake or stacking a scoop of Mind Mix into your morning coffee, mushrooms help you get more out of every bite and every rep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is mushroom a good source of protein?

Not really. While mushrooms do contain some protein—around 2–3 grams per 100g when raw—they’re not a primary protein source. Think of them as a nutrient-rich, low-calorie addition to your plate that supports a well-rounded diet, not as a replacement for beans, meat, or eggs.

What mushroom has the highest protein?

Oyster mushrooms typically have the highest protein content—up to 3.0g+ per 100g. Drying  mushrooms can also concentrate the nutrients and remove water, making these mushrooms more protein-dense than fresh varieties.

Which mushroom is best for bulking?

For clean bulking, focus on meaty mushrooms like portobello or lion’s mane to add satisfying texture and volume to your meals. If you’re looking for muscle recovery or energy support, functional mushroom powders like Crucial Cordyceps extract can be a useful supplement—just don’t rely on mushrooms alone to hit your protein targets.

A photo of Hamilton Pevec, owner of Hamilton

Hamilton Pevec

Hamilton believes that effective, affordable medicine is a fundamental right. Healing should never be hindered by cost. Driven by this belief, Hamilton left his career to dedicate his life to mushrooms. His journey is one of lifelong learning—mastering mushroom identification, cultivation, and understanding the profound physiological benefits of these natural “chemical factories.” Hamilton’s Mushrooms is dedicated to making pure, potent, science-backed mushroom extracts accessible to all.

  1. United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).
    FoodData Central: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov
  2. Verywell Fit.
    Mushroom Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits: https://www.verywellfit.com/mushroom-nutrition-facts-calories-and-health-benefits-4117115
  3. Healthline.
    White Mushroom Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/white-mushroom-nutrition