What is the Magic Bag Project?
The Magic Bag project offers an all-in-one, organic Mushroom Grow Bag that’s guaranteed to grow—just add spores. This isn’t just any grow bag; it’s OMRI Certified Organic and crafted with care. The Magic Bag is a Certified Benefit Corporation, meaning 100% of profits from every mushroom grow bag sold go straight to 501(c)(3) organizations doing groundbreaking research on the beneficial powers of mushrooms. Current beneficiaries include MAPS, Johns Hopkins, and Heroic Hearts. The bags are designed to make mushroom cultivation easy, accessible, and eco-friendly.
Main Benefits of the Magic Bag
Here’s what makes the Magic Bag stand out:
- Contains two pounds of organic mushroom substrate—a blend of composted manure, peat moss, vermiculite, coconut coir, gypsum, and coffee grounds.
- Includes two pounds of organic golden rye grain, perfectly moistened for optimal mushroom growth.
- Uses a medically sterilized, sealed polypropylene bag with a .2 micron air filter for oxygen exchange while keeping contaminants out.
- Features a self-healing injection port to prevent contamination during inoculation.
- Produces around 2 to 3 ounces of dried mushrooms (equivalent to 2 to 3 pounds fresh).
- Designed primarily for dung-loving mushroom species but works well with other culinary types too.
- Backed by a replacement guarantee if the bag doesn’t produce mushrooms—just send a photo and get troubleshooting or a new bag.
How to Use the Magic Bag
Using the Magic Bag is pretty straightforward. First, inject 3 to 5 CCs (mL) of liquid culture or spores into the bag. Liquid culture is recommended because it grows faster and resists contamination better than spores. Keep the bag in a warm, dark spot (72 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal). After a few weeks, the bag will start turning white—that’s the mycelium spreading. Give it a good shake to help the mycelium spread evenly. Once the bag is completely white, cut it open to let in some air and light, and mist it with water every few days. Pin the top loosely closed with the provided paper clip to allow air flow. Mushrooms should start sprouting in a week or two. Harvest them just before the cap separates from the stem. The bag will keep producing mushrooms for several weeks, with 2 to 5 flushes expected.
Eco-Friendly and Local Production
The Magic Bag project is deeply committed to eco-friendly practices. Their mushroom grow bags are produced in a facility in rural Ohio, sourcing materials locally whenever possible. The compost used is always organic and free from pesticides and synthetics. Sterility is a top priority—they use commercial steam sterilizing autoclaves for a 2.5-hour sterilization process to ensure the bags resist contamination. After the bags finish producing mushrooms, the organic substrate can be composted, and the plastic bag recycled in designated soft plastics recycling bins. This approach minimizes waste and supports sustainable mushroom cultivation.
Legal and Responsible Mushroom Cultivation
Magic Bag encourages customers to follow all local laws regarding mushroom cultivation. The bags are intended for legal edible and culinary mushroom strains only. Certain mushroom species offer unique experiences, and these should be approached with respect, preparation, and used as tools for healing and growth. The project does not condone using the bags to grow any illegal strains. This responsible stance ensures that the Magic Bag supports safe and lawful mushroom growing practices.
Project Impact and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Supporting research on medicinal mushrooms and their healing properties.
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – Promoting organic, sustainable cultivation and eco-friendly production methods.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Encouraging composting and reducing waste through sustainable mushroom farming.
- SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals – Donating profits to organizations advancing scientific research and mental health.
Expert Support and Customer Care
Magic Bag offers more than just a product—they provide expert guidance too. If growers need help, an in-house professional mycologist is available via email to offer support throughout the growing process. Plus, if any issues arise with mushroom production, customers can send a photo of their bag for troubleshooting or a replacement. This hands-on support makes mushroom growing less intimidating and more successful for beginners and experienced cultivators alike.
