The Mushrooming Health Benefits of Fungi

Consumption of mushrooms in the United States has steadily increased over the past several decades. Americans consume nearly 4 lb/person/year.

China accounts for 32% of the world’s mushroom production, followed by the U.S. with 16%. The white button mushroom, Agaricus bisporus, is the most widely cultivated species worldwide and the most commonly consumed in the U.S. Its production has increased by approximately 12% over the past decade.

Mushrooms provide many desirable characteristics as food, in…