Over 20 species of edible mushrooms are commercially cultivated in 60 different countries.
Background
- Mushrooms are part of the fungi kingdom which also includes yeasts and molds.
- Agaricus bisporus is the most commonly consumed mushroom in the world and is typically known as the white button mushroom.
- Agaricus bisporus includes three different stages of mushrooms.
- When immature and white, it is known as the white button mushroom.
- When immature and brown, this mushroom is known as cremini or baby bella mushroom.
- When in its mature state, it is known as the portabella mushroom.
- Some other edible mushroom varieties include shiitake, oyster, enoki, chanterell, and porcini.
- Mushrooms create the savory or meaty flavor umami. Umami is one of the five principal tastes which also includes sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.
- Mushrooms exposed to UV lights produce vitamin D2.
- Many mushrooms found in the wild are poisonous. Never harvest or consume wild mushrooms if you are not knowledgeable in identifying them.
Nutrition
- Raw white button mushrooms are a good source of riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and copper.
- Riboflavin supports growth and development, and red blood cell formation.
- Pantothenic acid aids in fat metabolism, hormone production, and nervous system function.
- Copper assists in bone formation, energy production, iron metabolism, and nervous system function.
How to purchase, prepare and store
- Purchase mushrooms that are firm and dry with a smooth appearance. Avoid those that are soft, slimy, or have dark spots.
- Mushrooms can be purchased fresh, dried, or canned.
- Prepare mushrooms by brushing off any debris with a damp paper towel. You can also quickly rinse mushrooms under running water and pat dry with a paper towel. Do not submerge mushrooms in water. Trim the stem prior to preparing.
- Sauté, roast, grill, bread, or stuff mushrooms. Add mushrooms to ground meat, soup, pasta sauce, or use as a pizza topping.
- Store mushrooms in the original packaging or transfer to a brown paper bag and refrigerate for up to one week.
Nutrition Facts
1/3 cup white button mushrooms (33 grams)
- Calories: 10.3
- Protein: 0.96 g
- Fat: 0.12 g
- Carbohydrate: 1.36 g
- Fiber: 0.56 g
- Calcium: 1.6 mg
- Iron: 0.07 mg
- Magnesium: 3.4 mg
- Phosphorus: 31 mg
- Folate: 11.6 µg
- Vitamin A: 0 µg
Via fdc.nal.usda.gov
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