When you hear the word "mushroom," what comes to mind? Do you simply picture the small fungi you pass by during a hike, barely noticing them as you walk through the woods. Or do you think of the rich, savory flavors they bring to your favorite dishes? Whatever your association, September - the National Mushroom Month - is the perfect time to discover just how remarkable mushrooms truly are.

Despite their simplicity, mushrooms are incredibly versatile. They add a rich umami flavor to dishes, stretch your grocery budget by enhancing meals and offer solutions to some of today's biggest challenges. In a world where sustainability and health are increasingly important, mushrooms stand out as a natural answer. Mushrooms have a unique ability to clean up environmental pollutants, including the ability to absorb radiation from contaminated soil.

They are also vigorous of nutrients, notably rich in Vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Beyond their nutritional value, mushrooms possess a variety of medicinal properties. Some species are known for their vibrant, natural dyes, while others have been recognized for their potential anti-cancer benefits.

As we celebrate National Mushroom Month, we encourage you to explore and share the wonders of these humble fungi with your network. Whether you're discussing their #culinairuses, #healthbenefits, or #environmentalimpact, there's no shortage of fascinating facts to spread!

Growing mushrooms above ground and sprouting soybeans are two entrepreneurial efforts looking to make plant-based protein ingredients more nutritious, affordable and sustainable.

Mush Foods, Ltd., Rehovot, Israel, a portfolio company of the Strauss Group Kitchen FoodTech Hub founded in 2021, now offers a 50CUT mycelium protein ingredient system to reduce the animal protein content in meat products by 50%, said Shalom Daniel, co-founder and chief executive officer of Mush Foods. The ingredient requires no agricultural land and uses minimal energy and water, according to the company. Cultivation does not depend on season or climate.

A binder and whole protein, the mushroom mycelium needs no added binders and offers an umami flavor and a fleshy meat-like texture as well as fiber, vitamins and minerals, Mr. Daniel said.

The company so far has developed 50CUT beef and 50CUT chicken. Pilot plants will be built in the United States. Company plans are to launch sales in the first quarter of 2024.

Read the full article here.

Source: Food Business News

Affordable, nutritious and delicious, fresh mushrooms are making their mark. Even though they look simple, mushrooms have a whole lot going for them in the nutrition department.
Essential Nutrients

A half-cup serving of cooked sliced mushrooms has a mere 14 calories, virtually no fat, 1 gram of fibre and is a source of phosphorus, potassium, copper, selenium, niacin and pantothenic acid. Mushrooms are also a good source of riboflavin, and are the only vegetable in the produce section with natural Vitamin D. All that goodness with little calories and fat makes mushrooms a nutrient dense food and a healthy choice.
Antioxidants

Fresh mushrooms contain a powerful antioxidant called L-ergothioneine. Ergothioneine is found in both raw and cooked mushrooms. Portabella and crimini mushrooms have the most, followed by white button mushrooms.
Fibre

Mushrooms offer both soluble and insoluble fibre, which helps to maintain good bowel health.
Cancer-Fighting

Fresh mushrooms offer nutrients such as beta-glucans and conjugated linoleic acid, compounds that are currently being studied for their chemo-preventive potential. Recent research suggests that mushrooms (and mushroom extracts) may have powerful anti-tumour activity, for both breast and prostate cancer.
Immunity

A strong immune system helps protect against infections from bacteria and viruses. Emerging research indicates that certain mushroom extracts (including extracts from the white button mushrooms), may have a positive effect on the immune system.
Weight Management

Fresh mushrooms are nutrient dense, meaning they are high in nutrients and low in calories. They also have high water content, are low in fat, and contain some fibre; three factors that will help keep you feeling fuller for longer. Researchers have found that people who eat satisfying portions of foods that are less energy-dense have greater success at weight loss and maintenance.

Fresh Mushrooms Can Help!

Recent Studies Show that fresh mushrooms can help with:

Blood Pressure
Arthritis
Diabetes
Heart Health
Gout
Healthy Aging
Childhood Obesity
Diverticulosis

Source: Mushrooms.ca