The Use of Fermented Buckwheat to Produce L-Carnitine Enriched Oyster Mushroom

Summary

This research demonstrates how fermented buckwheat can be used to grow oyster mushrooms with enhanced nutritional value, specifically higher levels of l-carnitine which is typically found in meat. This provides a potential vegetarian-friendly source of this important compound that helps the body convert fat into energy. Impacts on everyday life: – Provides vegetarians with an alternative source of l-carnitine typically found in meat – Offers a new functional food option for health-conscious consumers – Demonstrates how common foods like mushrooms can be enhanced through cultivation methods – Creates potential for more sustainable protein and nutrient sources – Shows how fermentation can improve the nutritional value of foods

Background

L-carnitine is an essential compound that shuttles long chain fatty acids into mitochondria. While it is synthesized from essential amino acids lysine and methionine in humans, 75% of l-carnitine is obtained from food, especially meat and milk. Due to controversies regarding meat-based diets, there is a need for alternative l-carnitine sources for vegetarians.

Objective

The objective of this study was to produce l-carnitine enriched oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) using common buckwheat fermented by Rhizopus oligosporus.

Results

Mushrooms grown on common buckwheat medium contained 9.9-23.9% higher l-carnitine (186.3 mg/kg) than those grown on basal medium. Those grown on fermented common buckwheat medium contained the highest l-carnitine content (201.2 mg/kg). Size index and lightness of mushroom pileus were also highest for those grown in medium with fermented common buckwheat. Antioxidant activities of mushroom extracts showed similar levels (38.7%) for mushrooms grown in media with common buckwheat or fermented common buckwheat.

Conclusion

The oyster mushroom grown on buckwheat and fermented buckwheat medium can be used as one of the substitutes for meat based diets due to its enhanced l-carnitine content and maintained antioxidant properties.
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