Antioxidant findings great news for button mushroom lovers
French research highlighting the antioxidant properties of white button mushrooms is great news for Australian consumers according to leading diet expert and Accredited Practising Dietitian, Glenn Cardwell.
Mr Cardwell said the research reinforced the valuable nutrition credentials of mushrooms, also known to be high in B vitamins and selenium.
The research was undertaken at a French government research institute – Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique – and published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture.
Mr Cardwell said the antioxidant finding was a welcome one for all mushroom lovers as it provided additional evidence of the dietary benefits of this popular food.
He explained that antioxidants are natural compounds in food that assist in boosting the body’s immune system.
“What the research tells us is that button mushrooms are even better for us than was previously thought.
“Although mushrooms are known as the number one source of the essential vitamins riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, biotin and Vitamin D when compared to vegetables, the findings suggest we have underestimated the valuable antioxidant properties.
“Given that the button mushroom is the most heavily consumed variety in Australia and is available all year round, this research reinforces its role as a primary source of good nutrition,” Mr Cardwell said.
