Mushrooms come in a spectacular range of varieties but perhaps the most regularly used is the “crimini”, which you may know as the “white”, “button” or “Portobello”. These brown or cream-coloured funghi have a distinctive button-like cap atop a short stalk. 

 

The nutritional content of mushrooms is greatly affected by the ways in which you store them.  Contrary to popular practice, you should avoid keeping your mushrooms at room temperature, as research has shown that they discolour and harden more quickly in these conditions, a reflection of the decrease of important nutrients. Instead, place them in the refrigerator right away, to retain as much of their nutritional value. Of all the various types of mushrooms, the Crimini is believed to be the most beneficial to our immune systems.

 

As a fungus, mushrooms have no roots, leaves, flowers or seeds and are living organisms. Unlike plants, funghi don’t require soil or light to grow.  They can grow in the wild, on any decaying organic matter such as wood or leaves.

 

Due to the commercial production of mushrooms, where possible try and buy certified organic varieties.  Non-organic commercial types are at higher risk of contamination of pesticides, heavy metals and other substances.