Here’s a breakdown of the provided text, focusing on the core mission and the data presented:
Core Mission (Implied):
The core mission of the article appears to be to inform the French public about the emerging trend of adaptogenic mushroom coffee, its potential benefits, regulatory considerations, and future market prospects. It aims to educate consumers about this new product category, highlighting both its appeal and the necesary precautions.
Key Information Presented:
What are Adaptogenic Mushrooms?
They are substances found in the environment.
They can be beneficial (like minerals) or harmful (toxic substances like heavy metals or pesticides).
The article implies that adaptogenic mushrooms are a category of these substances.
Expert Advice on Product Quality:
Alexandra Retion (Nutritionist-dietitian) emphasizes the importance of vigilance regarding the origin and quality of purchased products, especially online.
She recommends opting for organic products that comply wiht French standards, as they are verified.
she advises mistrust of products from Asia or Eastern Europe due to differing certifications and specifications.
Regulatory Supervision in Europe:
Adaptogenic mushroom coffee, as a “novel food,” requires approval from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) before being marketed in europe.
this is governed by Regulation (EC) n° 1924/2006, which mandates prior authorization for foods not consumed in Europe before 1997 (e.g., exotic mushrooms, insects, algae).
If a product is not listed in the EFSA’s Novel Food Catalog, it cannot be marketed in Europe.
An example is given: the turkey tail fungus (trametes versicolor), which is freely sold in Asia and the US but not authorized in Europe.
the Trend’s Persistence and growth:
The trend of adaptogenic mushroom coffee is expected to persist and grow in France. Samuel Tessier (Founder of Le Café des Guerrier) believes it’s a “basic trend that accelerates,” not just a niche.
He points to the United States as a precedent, where adaptogenic cafes have been widely consumed for over 10 years and are now found in supermarkets.
French Market Potential:
The French are large coffee consumers, making them an ideal target market.
A French resident consumes an average of three kilograms of coffee per year, equating to nearly 500 cups annually.
Current and Future Availability:
Currently, mushroom coffees are found in pharmacies, fine grocery stores, organic shops, and online.
* Due to their success, they are expected to soon be available in supermarkets.
In essence, the article serves as an introduction and guide to adaptogenic mushroom coffee for the French consumer, covering its nature, safety, regulation, and market trajectory.