6.2 Food Production: Fungi

Introduction

  • Fungi, including mushrooms and yeast, play diverse roles in the food industry.
  • Contribute to food production, preservation, nutritional value, and flavor development.

Importance of Mushrooms in Food Industry

  • Food Source & Culinary Delicacy: Edible mushrooms are cultivated for human consumption, valued for "umami" flavor and versatile textures.
  • Nutritional Value: Rich in protein, fiber, vitamins (B, D, E), and minerals (calcium, iron, zinc).
  • Meat Alternatives: Used as substitutes in plant-based products due to meaty texture and umami.
  • Food Value Enhancement: Extracts/powders enhance nutritional and sensorial profiles of various foods.
  • Functional Foods: Contain bioactive compounds for immune support, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

Importance of Yeast in Food Industry

  • Key Fungus: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (fermentation capabilities).
  • Baking: Leavening agent; ferments sugars to produce CO₂ gas, causing dough to rise.
  • Brewing: Essential for alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits); ferments sugars into alcohol and CO₂.
  • Fermented Foods: Used in various other fermented foods for flavor, texture, and preservation.
  • Flavor Enhancement: Yeast extracts used as flavoring agents.
  • Nutritional Value: Source of protein, enzymes, and vitamins (used in nutritional supplements).