Research Topic: Functional food

The Possibility of Using Sulphur Shelf Fungus (Laetiporus sulphureus) in the Food Industry and in Medicine—A Review

Sulphur shelf fungus, known as ‘chicken of the woods,’ is a bright yellow mushroom that grows on tree trunks and has remarkable health benefits. Research shows it contains compounds with antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticancer properties, making it valuable for both food and medicine. The fungus can be cultivated relatively quickly and easily, and some countries already recognize it as safe for food use, potentially opening new applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

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Exploring the Mechanisms of Amino Acid and Bioactive Constituent Formation During Fruiting Body Development in Lyophyllum decastes by Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses

This research study examined how Lyophyllum decastes mushrooms develop and accumulate their valuable nutrients and flavor compounds. Scientists found that amino acids and polysaccharides reach their highest levels when the mushroom is mature, ready for harvesting. By analyzing the genes and chemical changes during mushroom growth, researchers identified the specific pathways responsible for producing these beneficial compounds. This knowledge helps improve mushroom cultivation and confirms its value as a healthy functional food.

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Exploring the Nutritional Value and Bioactive Potential of Craterellus cornucopioides (L.) Pers. as a Functional Food Source

Black trumpet mushrooms from Romania have been found to contain high levels of beneficial compounds that protect cells from damage and fight harmful bacteria. The mushrooms showed strong antioxidant properties in laboratory tests and were effective against several disease-causing bacteria, though not against all types tested. These results suggest that black trumpets could be used as a natural supplement or food ingredient to support health and potentially help treat infections.

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Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Mushroom-Based Food Additives and Food Fortified with Them—Current Status and Future Perspectives

Mushrooms are nutrient-rich foods containing compounds that protect our bodies from damage and reduce inflammation. When mushrooms are processed into powders, extracts, or specially designed capsules, they can be added to ordinary foods like bread, pasta, and yogurt to make them healthier. This review shows that these mushroom-enriched foods successfully boost the antioxidant power of products, though the best results depend on how the mushrooms are prepared and which type of food they’re added to.

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Functional Components from the Liquid Fermentation of Edible and Medicinal Fungi and Their Food Applications in China

Mushroom mycelium grown in liquid fermentation produces many beneficial compounds like polysaccharides and proteins that support immune function and may help fight cancer and oxidative stress. These fermented mushroom products can be added to foods, beverages, and health supplements to boost their nutritional value and health benefits. Studies show that fermented mushroom mycelium sometimes contains higher levels of beneficial compounds compared to whole mushroom fruiting bodies, making it a promising ingredient for functional foods and health products.

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Regulatory effects of Poria cocos polysaccharides on gut microbiota and metabolites: evaluation of prebiotic potential

Poria cocos is a medicinal mushroom commonly used in Asian cuisine and traditional medicine. This study found that its polysaccharides act as prebiotics by feeding beneficial gut bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium while reducing harmful bacteria. The fermentation produces beneficial compounds called short-chain fatty acids that support digestive health and may help prevent diseases like obesity and inflammation.

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Extraction, Characterization, Biological Properties, and X-Ray Fluorescence Analysis of Functional Polysaccharides Derived from Limnospira platensis

Spirulina (Limnospira platensis) is a nutrient-dense microalga that contains beneficial polysaccharides with multiple health benefits. Researchers extracted and analyzed these polysaccharides, finding they have strong antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels by inhibiting α-glucosidase enzymes. These compounds also support beneficial gut bacteria growth, making spirulina a promising natural ingredient for functional foods and health supplements.

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Structural Elucidation of Heteropolysaccharides from the Peach-Shaped Dictyophora indusiata and Its Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Researchers extracted polysaccharides from peach-shaped bamboo fungus (Dictyophora indusiata) and discovered they contain beneficial beta-glucans. When tested on human immune cells triggered to become inflamed, these polysaccharides reduced inflammatory markers and messenger proteins. The compounds were found to be chemically stable under various conditions, suggesting potential use as a natural anti-inflammatory supplement or food ingredient.

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The Inhibitory Effects of Cordyceps militaris ARA301 Extract on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Lung Injury in vivo

Researchers tested a mushroom extract from Cordyceps militaris to see if it could protect mice from lung injury caused by bacterial toxins. The extract successfully reduced inflammation, prevented excessive mucus production, and decreased immune cell buildup in the lungs. These findings suggest that this mushroom extract could potentially be used as a natural supplement to help prevent respiratory diseases and support lung health.

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Koumiss (Fermented Mare’s Milk) as a Functional Food: Bioactive Proteins, Peptides, and Future Perspectives

Koumiss is a fermented mare’s milk beverage consumed for centuries in Central Asia that offers unique health benefits. Unlike cow’s milk, mare’s milk is easier to digest, contains natural antimicrobial proteins, and when fermented develops thousands of bioactive peptides and beneficial bacteria. These compounds may help with cardiovascular health, gut function, and immune support, making koumiss a promising functional food for modern nutrition.

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