Siberian chaga extract powder is extracted from the Siberian chaga mushroom, which grows naturally on Siberian forest birch trees. Siberian chaga extract has been found to contain many beneficial nutrients, antioxidants and adaptogenic properties.
But did you know that there are three commonly used methods for dehydrating Siberian chaga and not all of them actually preserve these benefits? Let’s go through the process of manufacturing Siberian chaga mushroom extract powder and the various dehydration methods. You’ll quickly learn why all types of Siberian chaga extract aren’t created equal.
Manufacturing Siberian Chaga Mushroom Extract
The process of manufacturing chaga mushroom extract includes several steps and opportunities to elevate the chaga extract powder.
- The process begins with preparing the raw chaga and then crushing it into small chunks.
- Next, the chaga is extracted in evaporation and vacuum units.
- The half-liquid chaga mass is then separated and dehydrated using one of three methods (spray-dried, infrared-dried or freeze-dried).
- Following the dehydration phase, the dried Siberian chaga extract is crushed into a very fine powder.
- Finally, the chaga extract powder is packaged and stored.
This process of manufacturing high-quality Siberian chaga extract powder obviously requires keen professional skills of those producing it. But the manufacturer is also held to extremely stringent standards. These requirements include but are not limited to the following:
- Sourcing of high-quality, wild raw Siberian chaga mushrooms
- An appropriate and sustainable Siberian chaga mushroom extraction method
- Use of advanced technology and equipment
- Experience and skills in manufacturing dried chaga mushroom extract
- Proper chaga mushroom dehydration
The Process of Dehydration and Why It Matters
As we’ve mentioned, the best dried chaga mushroom extract grows in Siberian taiga forests. It contains extremely valuable substances, such as humic-like chaga acids that simply can’t be found in artificially cultivated chaga mushrooms.
In addition to the origin of the chaga, the actual method of dehydration has a huge impact on the quality of the Siberian chaga extract powder. The dehydration process is necessary to transform the half-liquid mass of chaga extract into a dry powder. As we mentioned earlier, there are three commonly used methods of dehydrating chaga extract:
1. Spray-Drying
This method involves spraying the Siberian chaga extract in a centrifugal machine by compressed hot air. During this process, the chaga mushroom undergoes a strong thermal impact that can affect its chemical composition. This method can strongly diminish the extract's nutritional value.
2. Infrared-Drying
This dehydration method utilizes infrared ovens to remove any water or moisture in the chaga mushroom. This process also involves the chaga mushroom undergoing an extremely strong thermal impact. Like the spray-drying method, infrared-drying also diminishes many of the extract's nutritional benefits.
3. Sublimation (Freeze-Drying)
Unlike spray- and infrared-drying, the sublimation method actually preserves the maximum quantity of beneficial substances in the chaga, without causing any damage to the chaga molecules. The process is much more complicated, requiring preliminary preparation of the liquid chaga extract prior to dehydration.
Sublimation is the act of removing solvents from frozen solutions, gels, suspensions and biological objects. In simpler terms: the consolidated solvent (ice) is able to bypass the liquid phase. This process requires a high vacuum to produce chaga extract with the proper moisture level.
So, What Makes Freeze-Dried Siberian Chaga Extract Powder The Best?
The freeze-drying method is complicated, expensive and labor-intensive. However, it ultimately creates a superior, more nutritional product that not only tastes better, but stays fresh longer. Let’s explore exactly what makes freeze-dried Siberian chaga extract the superior quality product.
It Maintains Nutrients And Taste
Both spray- and infrared-drying methods require high temperatures that impact the overall quality of the chaga. These processes fail to control the moisture content and create an overheated, over-dried product with an unpleasant smell, taste and a lack of useful nutrients.
The process of freeze-drying, on the other hand, physically cannot over dry the Siberian chaga, preserving its overall molecular integrity. This method maintains the Siberian chaga’s beneficial vitamins, acids, nutrients and proteins. It also allows the chaga to keep its pleasant taste and aroma.
It Ensures Freshness And Solubility
Neither spray- nor infrared-dried chaga extract dissolves quickly. In fact, it actually continues to float on the water’s surface until thoroughly stirred.
Siberian chaga extract powder that is created using sublimation dehydration preserves its organoleptic and chemical properties, making it instantly water soluble.
The method of sublimation also gives chaga extract a prolonged shelf life. With adequate storage conditions, it can stay fresh for three or more years – much longer than chaga extract powder created using other dehydration methods.
Have a question or need more information about Siberian chaga, its benefits or how to incorporate it into your diet? Reach out to our friendly and knowledgeable Superfoods Australia customer service team today!
