Practitioner decision effects on select biochemical and organoleptic qualities of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)

Practitioner decision effects on select biochemical and organoleptic qualities of shiitake mushrooms (Lentinula edodes)

Summary

Forest cultivation of shiitake mushrooms can make use of marginal lands to create supplemental income pursuant of small farm viability. With some up-front labor inputs, shiitake cultivation is a low-risk enterprise opportunity. This investigation seeks to contribute to product development and best management practices for this novel forest enterprise by evaluating antioxidant capacity and consumers’ perception of shiitake mushrooms, grown using different log-species substrates. Consumer perception will be evaluated using discrimination tests, preference tests, and focus groups to evaluate resulting qualities from specific practitioner decisions. Bio-chemical analysis will describe specific chemical classes that have been associated with human health, specifically, polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity. Contrasting biochemical qualities and sensory attributes is novel approach in the assessment of food quality. The results of this work will create greater knowledge capital for mushroom growers to more efficiently market their product, plan production systems more appropriately for their select demographic, and give growers more ammunition in branding and creating a niche for their unique product, not only as a gourmet food item, but also as a functional food.

Objectives/Performance Targets

• The objectives of this study are to; Quantify chemical classes that contribute to the antioxidant capacity of forest grown mushrooms. •Evaluate consumer’s ability to discriminate between shiitake mushrooms grown on different log species. • Determine if the consumer can discriminate or have preference for mushrooms produced on different log species substrates. •Based on preceding sensory results, determine if there are contributing taste factors that influence the ability to discriminate. • Identify particular keywords or descriptors that differentiate mushrooms grown on different log- species. • Distribute results of work through manual of best management practices, Cultivation of Shiitake as an Agroforestry Crop for New England, stand alone publication and grower networks/meetings. Methods

Accomplishments/Milestones

Performance targets scheduled to be completed in the calender year 2012 are; collection and storage of mushroom samples from research plots.

This activity is still in progress. Upon completion of harvest and collection of shiitake mushrooms, we can begin further analysis. There are no further obstacles to the completion of further analysis, other than the collection of mushroom material, as all necessary approval has been met.

Impacts and Contributions/Outcomes

While project is barely 1/5 complete, no impacts and contributions have been met. Expected impact seek to assess alternative tree species for log-grown shiitake mushrooms. Similarly we seek to explore potential marketing ammunition for forest-grown shiitake farmers.

Collaborators: