When we talk about Cordyceps, we are not referring to a single fungus. The name covers several species with different biological profiles – Cordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris are the best known and most often compared. Here we explain how they differ and why origin and regulatory status matter.
What they have in common
Both belong to the same genus and have a long tradition of use in Asia. Both contain polysaccharides and nucleosides such as adenosine and cordycepin, which is why they are often grouped under the generic name 'Cordyceps'.
Cordyceps sinensis: the traditional species
Cordyceps sinensis is the species historically associated with Cordyceps in Tibetan and Chinese tradition. Its composition includes polysaccharides, nucleosides, sterols and other characteristic compounds.
Cordyceps militaris: a different species
Cordyceps militaris has gained prominence in recent research, and several studies report higher cordycepin levels, especially when it is grown to maximise that compound. But cordycepin is just one of many compounds in the genus, so the two species are not interchangeable.
Origin and control
Wild C. sinensis is scarce and its composition varies. That is why we grow our Cordyceps as mycelium in bioreactors from Tibetan strains, under controlled conditions, to ensure the identity of the species, a consistent composition and protection from contaminants.
What the regulations say
A food is considered a 'novel food' if it was not consumed to a significant degree before 15 May 1997. In Great Britain, the Food Standards Agency currently considers Cordyceps militaris unauthorised without specific approval, and products containing it have been withdrawn. Cordyceps sinensis mycelium has a documented history of consumption, so it is not automatically considered a novel food when the species, part and process are consistent with that history.
What to look for
- The species on the label (C. sinensis or C. militaris).
- The part used and how it is grown.
- Organic certification, traceability and batch analysis.