FACT FILE: MUSHROOMS

No meal is complete without the rich, earthy flavour of mushrooms . Let’s dig in and discover more about this versatile staple! Read on for information about their health benefits, key nutrients, and suggestions for cooking, usage, and storage.

    • There are many types of mushrooms grown in South Australia, including Button, Swiss Brown, Portobello, Oyster, Enoki, Shiitake, King Oyster, Shimeji, and Nameko.

    • Mushrooms double in size every day

    • Mushrooms are grown indoors, 24/7, all year round.

    • A portobello mushroom is simply a mature Swiss Brown, and a large flat BBQ mushroom starts out as a tiny button mushroom—they just stay on the bed a few extra days to grow!

    • The bigger the mushroom and the more gills it has, the stronger its flavour—thanks to extra time to mature.

    • Mushrooms are the only non-animal food source of vitamin D.

    • They’re fat-free, low in calories and salt, cholesterol-free, and gluten-free—yet packed with essential nutrients.

    • Leave mushrooms in the sunshine for 15 minutes, and they’ll “supercharge” with even more vitamin D.

    • Just one portobello mushroom contains more potassium than a banana

    • Mushrooms are rich in umami – that deep, savoury “fifth taste” similar to meat.

    • They are Earthy and nutty, with some varieties carrying a woody depth.

    • Mild and delicate when young (like button mushrooms), becoming bolder and meatier as they mature (like portobello).

    • Cooking methods (sautéing, roasting, grilling) intensify their flavour and bring out natural sweetness.

    • Keep mushrooms in a paper bag in the fridge – it helps absorb moisture and keeps them fresher for longer.

    • Avoid plastic bags or sealed containers – mushrooms need to breathe, otherwise they’ll sweat and spoil faster.

    • Store them in the main fridge compartment, not the crisper, to reduce humidity exposure.

    • Don’t wash mushrooms before storing – only clean them right before cooking to prevent sogginess.

    • Use within 3–5 days of purchase for the best flavour and texture.

    • If you buy pre-packed mushrooms, remove the plastic wrap and transfer them to a paper bag or wrap loosely in paper towels.

    • Rich in umami – adds flavour without the need for extra salt.

    • Nutrient-dense – low in calories, fat-free, cholesterol-free, and gluten-free, while packed with vitamins and minerals.

    • Natural source of vitamin D – the only non-animal food source, especially when exposed to sunlight.

    • contains B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid) which support energy, brain health, and a healthy nervous system.

    • Good source of antioxidants like selenium and ergothioneine, which protect cells and support immune health.

    • High in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health (one portobello has more potassium than a banana!).

    • Support gut health thanks to their prebiotic fibre, which nourishes healthy gut bacteria.

    • Ergothioneine – a unique antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress.

    • Beta-glucans – immune-boosting soluble fibres that support heart and gut health.

    • Selenium – a trace mineral with antioxidant properties that helps protect cells and supports immunity.

    • Vitamin D (D2) – naturally present, and levels increase when exposed to sunlight.

    • Copper – essential for energy production, iron metabolism, and maintaining healthy nerves.

    • Phenolic compounds – plant-based antioxidants that help fight inflammation.

    • Polysaccharides – support immune function and may contribute to overall wellness.