
Do Mushrooms Have Protein? Nutritional Facts + Top Picks
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Time to read 6 min
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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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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]]
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 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:
Mushrooms are incredibly low-calorie and fat-free, which means you can add protein and volume without disrupting your macros.
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
Mushrooms combine well with grains, legumes, and soy—making them perfect for anyone building a complete protein profile on a plant-forward diet.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.