Multivariate Analysis of Mineral Constituents of Edible Parasol Mushroom (Macrolepiota procera) and Soils Beneath Fruiting Bodies Collected from Northern Poland

This research examined how Parasol Mushrooms, a popular wild edible mushroom, accumulate various minerals from soil. The study found that these mushrooms can concentrate both beneficial and potentially harmful minerals in their caps, even when growing in unpolluted areas. While they are good sources of essential minerals like potassium and copper, they can also accumulate concerning levels of toxic metals like cadmium, mercury and lead. Impacts on everyday life: • People who frequently collect and eat wild mushrooms should be aware of potential toxic metal accumulation • Moderate consumption of Parasol Mushrooms can provide beneficial dietary minerals • Environmental pollution can be monitored through mushroom mineral content analysis • Local food safety guidelines may need to consider wild mushroom consumption patterns • Understanding mineral uptake by mushrooms helps assess environmental quality