Steve Hoffman 9/10/25 Steve Hoffman 9/10/25

Host Defense® Receives INFRA’s Vendor Impact Award and Additional Awards from Taste for Life Magazine

Mushroom supplement category leader honored by Independent Natural Food Retailers Association as well as by leading health publication Taste for Life

OLYMPIA, Wash. (Sept. 9, 2025) — Host Defense®, the #1 best-selling mushroom supplement brand in the U.S. based on SPINS data, has just been honored with three major industry accolades.

The Independent Natural Food Retailers Association (INFRA) presented Host Defense with its Vendor Impact Award, recognizing the company’s leadership in sustainability, innovation, and retailer education. In addition, MycoBenefits™ Focus*, one of Host Defense’s newest product innovations, was named a winner in Taste for Life’s Back-to-School Essentials Awards for its formula designed to support attention, clarity, and concentration. Most recently, MycoBenefits™ Mood* was also honored by Taste for Life in its September Remedies Happiness (Avoid SAD) Essentials Awards, celebrating it as a standout solution to support a peaceful emotional state and balanced mood.*

"These awards affirm our mission to advance the science, sustainability, efficacy, and accessibility of beneficial mushroom mycelium and fruiting bodies," said Betsy Bullman, Host Defense Vice President of Sales and Marketing. "We’re proud to partner with independent retailers, innovate in ways that matter, and deliver products that help people thrive naturally. We appreciate the recognition from these distinguished organizations."*

INFRA Vendor Impact Award
With over 350 member retailers and 600 store locations across the country, INFRA is a cooperative of independently owned natural food stores working together to strengthen the success of their businesses.

The Vendor Impact Award celebrates brands that embody INFRA’s values:

Innovative Leadership: Pushing the boundaries of sustainability, retail innovation, and business excellence.
Nourishing Communities: Supporting independent retailers and strengthening local economies.
Forward Momentum: Demonstrating strong sales growth and purposeful expansion.
Regenerative Impact: Leading in sustainability, ethical sourcing, and climate-conscious initiatives.
Advocacy & Access: Championing diversity, equity, and inclusion while making sustainable, healthy food accessible to all.

Host Defense was chosen for its unmatched sustainability efforts. Climate Positive, the company offsets its carbon footprint by 110%—that’s 10% more emissions offset than the organization produces itself. Host Defense also sources energy from renewables like wind and hydroelectric, utilizes recycled plastics in packaging wherever possible, and commits to deforestation-free practices. The company invests in Life Cycle Analyses to further improve packaging efficiency and is developing a green transportation plan to reduce shipping impacts.

Beyond environmental business practices, Host Defense sets the bar for retailer education—hosting nearly 20 live webinars monthly, offering free products to attendees, and providing extensive training for retail staff. The brand’s research-backed formulations and category-defining product innovation continue to shape trends in the mushroom supplement space.

Taste for Life Awards
Reaching nearly 1 million readers, Taste for Life is a leading natural health and wellness magazine and online platform with over 25 years of editorial history.

The Taste for Life Back-to-School Essentials Award for MycoBenefits™ Focus* spotlights the formula’s unique blend of organic mushroom mycelium—including Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi—with targeted botanicals and nutrients to promote mental clarity, attention, and calm energy for students, professionals, and anyone seeking daily cognitive support. This recognition underscores Host Defense’s expertise in creating functional, multi-benefit wellness solutions.*

And the Taste for Life September Remedies Happiness (Avoid SAD) Essentials Awards recognizing MycoBenefits™ Mood* is a reflection of Host Defense’s ongoing commitment to formulating high-quality products. The formula uses Reishi and Lion’s Mane mushroom mycelium alongside other supportive adaptogens like Ashwagandha and L-Theanine to aid mental energy, mood, and calm thinking. It's a multi-ingredient formula that fits seamlessly into a self-care wellness routine and promotes a balanced mood, calm body, and clear mind.*

About Fungi Perfecti, LLC—Maker of Host Defense® Mushrooms™
Fungi Perfecti, LLC is a family-owned company founded by internationally renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, who launched Host Defense® under Fungi Perfecti with the goal of building a bridge between people and fungi. Host Defense is now the leading mushroom supplement brand in the U.S., specializing in mushroom mycelium-based supplements and functional beverage mixes designed to support human health. Its product line reflects the company’s commitment to sustainability, scientific integrity, research, and education.*

Fungi Perfecti has become synonymous with cutting-edge mycological research and solutions—from water filtration (mycofiltration) and ecological rehabilitation (mycoremediation) to combating Colony Collapse Disorder in bees. A Certified B Corporation, Fungi Perfecti is third-party designated as Climate Positive, offsetting 110% of its carbon emissions. Follow Host Defense and Fungi Perfecti on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Media Contact
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042

Steve Hoffman 8/12/25 Steve Hoffman 8/12/25

Spotlight on Host Defense: A leader in wellness innovation and scientific integrity

Host Defense® is making headlines & redefining what mushroom supplements can do.

As the best-selling mushroom supplement brand in the U.S., Host Defense is proud to be a leader in wellness innovation and scientific integrity. Founded by world-renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, the company has spent over 40 years building a bridge between fungi and human health.

From immune support and cognitive function to environmental restoration and bee protection, Host Defense products are rooted in research, powered by nature, and guided by a commitment to transparency.

At Host Defense, we don’t just follow the mushroom trend — we’ve helped shape it.

Host Defense News

Host Defense Lion’s Mane Brain Health Support chosen as the "Best Organic Mushroom Supplement"

Check out the New York Post's recent article "Magic or Myth: A mycologist's guide and review of the best mushroom supplements." Dubbed the “Smart Mushroom,” Lion's Mane has been shown to support memory, mood, cognition, gut health, and nervous system health.

Catch Paul at the 45th Telluride Mushroom Festival Aug. 14-18th

8/14 @ 7:30pm ~ Keynote Presentation: "Paul Stamets in his Natural Habitat: How Psilocybin Mushrooms Can Help Save The World"
8/15 @ 2:00pm ~ Book Signing @ the Fungi Perfecti Booth
8/16 @ 10:15am ~ Presentation: The Potential of Mushrooms to Support our Minds and Wellness
8/16 @ 11:30am ~ Book Signing @ Between the Covers Bookstore
8/16 @ 1:00pm ~ Panel Discussion Psychedelics

Don't Miss the Host Defense "Stage Takeover" at Newtopia Now

8/22 @ 11:15 AM to 11:30 AM ~ Regenerate Stage - #262. "Mushroom Mycelium & Fruiting Body: Growing Pains in the Mushroom Supplement Category"
Visit the Host Defense booth in the THRIVE Market pavilion #1335
August 20-22, 2025 ~ Denver, CO.

Paul’s recent appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, the release of his new book Psilocybin Mushrooms in Their Natural Habitats, and a standing ovation at Psychedelic Science 2025 underscore the cultural and scientific momentum behind this movement.

Paul Joins Joe Rogan Again
Paul shares his personal viewpoints on how mushrooms are helping the overall health of people and planet with Joe.

New Book Release
"Psilocybin Mushrooms in Their Natural Habitats: A Guide to the History, Identification, and Use of Psychoactive Fungi" by Paul Stamets is available now.

Psychedelic Science
Paul's opening keynote address at PS2025, held in Denver, drew standing-room-only crowds. Click here for the full story.

Steve Hoffman 6/24/25 Steve Hoffman 6/24/25

Psychedelic Science 2025 Conference Focused on Research, Business ‘Integration’

By Steven Hoffman

In a state where it’s legal for people 21 and older to consume DMT, ibogaine, mescaline, psilocybin and psilocin recreationally – and where licensed therapists and treatment providers can practice psychedelic therapy – Colorado played host to the fifth annual Psychedelic Science Conference. Hosted by the nonprofit MAPS, the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies, founded in 1986 by Rick Doblin, Psychedelic Sciences 2025 (PS2025) was held June 16-20 at the Colorado Convention Center in Denver. The event is the world’s largest gathering focused on psychedelic research and industry developments.

Highlighting a theme of “The Integration,” this year’s conference drew 7,000 attendees and featured an exhibit hall and agenda replete with programming, education, art installations and events to highlight the emerging science and potential benefits of psychedelics.

*World-renowned mycologist and founder of Fungi Perfecti® Paul Stamets speaks at Psychedelic Science 2025, held June 16-20, 2025, in Denver.*

“This year's theme, The Integration, reflects a critical turning point in psychedelics: where research meets regulation, healing meets culture and personal insights scale into collective change,” said Betty Aldworth, Interim Co-Executive Director of MAPS.

With billions of investment dollars flowing into psychedelic science, drug development and emerging therapeutic models, PS2025 offered tracks on research, therapeutics, policy and regulatory issues, plus a business track with speakers providing insights into the commercial landscape. “From cross-sector policy innovators to regulatory changemakers and emerging leaders in psychedelic infrastructure, PS2025’s business track spotlights the forces shaping how psychedelics move from research to real world impact,” conference organizers said.

Keynote speakers at PS2025 included Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, who announced at the event that he was issuing pardons for individuals who were convicted in the state of possessing “magic” mushrooms containing psilocybin and psilocin. Polis said he hopes Colorado can take a leading role when it comes to the legal framework and research around psychedelic mushrooms.

Colorado residents in 2022 voted to decriminalize psychedelic mushrooms for people 21 and older. The measure also legalized state-regulated "healing centers" where participants can experience the drug under supervision. "Colorado has been a national leader in breaking through outdated laws around cannabis, and now we are doing the same for natural medicine," Gov. Polis said in a prepared statement.

World-renowned mycologist Paul Stamets, founder of Fungi Perfecti® and Host Defense®, also was featured as a keynote speaker at PS2025. His opening talk, held on the Expo Stage, drew standing-room-only crowds as he shared information on identifying and growing psychedelic mushrooms from his new book, Psilocybin Mushrooms in Their Natural Habitats, released in early June. Stamets also spoke of the emerging research highlighting the potential of micro-dosing psilocybin in helping to increase overall neural connectivity, or “rewire” the brain in cases of depression, anxiety, dementia, PTSD and more.

Additional keynote speakers included U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Minn.); Shereef Elnahal, former Undersecretary for Health, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; former U.S. Congressman Tim Ryan, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, former U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, and a number of researchers, scientists, medical practitioners, industry leaders and community advocates across 14 distinct educational tracks. PS2025 also featured movie screenings, creative installations and more than 200 exhibitors in the exhibition hall.

Psychedelic Sciences 2025, hosted by MAPS, was produced by Superfly, a production company known for such major events at Bonnaroo and Outside Lands.

Learn More
Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies: https://maps.org

Psychedelic Science 2025: https://www.psychedelicscience.org

Steven Hoffman is Managing Director of Compass Natural, providing public relations, brand marketing, social media and strategic business development services to natural, organic, regenerative and sustainable products businesses. Contact steve@compassnaturalmarketing.com.

Steve Hoffman 6/4/25 Steve Hoffman 6/4/25

Host Defense® Founder Paul Stamets to Appear on Three Major Podcasts This Summer

Stamets Brings Mushroom Science to Millions Through Top-Ranked Podcasts and New Book Release

OLYMPIA, Wash. (June 3, 2025) — Fungi Perfecti, LLC, the pioneering company behind Host Defense® Mushrooms™ — the leading mushroom supplement brand in the U.S. — announces that its founder, world-renowned mycologist and entrepreneur Paul Stamets, will be featured on several major podcasts this summer in support of his newly released book, Psilocybin Mushrooms in Their Natural Habitats.

Stamets is set to appear on The Joe Rogan Experience June 24, where he’ll discuss his decades of scientific research, the future of fungi-based medicine, and the critical role mushrooms play in planetary health. Ahead of that, he will join Grammy-winning artist Kacey Musgraves on the Sing for Science podcast on June 22, exploring the intersection of music, mycology, and sustainability. On July 3, Stamets will also be featured on The Mayim Bialik’s Breakdown podcast, bringing his insights on mushrooms, mental health, and longevity to a wider audience.

A Pivotal Moment for Mushroom Science
These appearances follow Host Defense’s recent honor — the Taste for Life 2025 Longevity Essentials Award for Mycobenefits™ Focus* supplements — recognizing the company's commitment to advancing wellness through scientifically supported mushroom supplements.*

The recognition comes at an exciting time for Stamets and Host Defense, as interest in mushroom-based health solutions continues to grow. In response to increasing curiosity and conversation around the role of mycelium, Host Defense draws on decades of research and clinical data to spotlight its significant benefits for immune and neurological support. Stamets emphasizes the value of mycelium as a powerful and intentional part of the formulation and advocates for accurate, transparent labeling across the industry. By encouraging standardized testing for key compounds like beta-glucans and promoting a science-first approach, Stamets and Host Defense continue to lead with integrity, innovation, and a deep commitment to education and consumer empowerment in the mushroom wellness space.*

About Host Defense®
Host Defense® is the leading mushroom supplement brand in the U.S. Its parent company Fungi Perfect, LLC is a family-owned company founded by internationally renowned mycologist Paul Stamets. Host Defense specializes in mushroom mycelium-based supplements and functional beverage mixes designed to support human health, and its parent company Fungi Perfecti has become synonymous with cutting-edge mycological research and solutions, from water filtration (mycofiltration) and ecological rehabilitation (mycoremediation) to combating Colony Collapse Disorder in bees. Host Defense® products reflect the company’s commitment to sustainability, scientific integrity, research and education. Fungi Perfecti is a Certified B Corporation and is third-party designated as Climate Positive, offsetting 110% of their carbon emissions. Its mission is to build a bridge between people and fungi in service of people and the planet. Follow Host Defense and Fungi Perfecti on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.