Structure and composition of mushrooms as affected by hydrogen peroxide wash

An experimental H2O2/browning inhibitor wash treatment and its effect on mushroom structure and composition were studied. Experimentally washed mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) were compared with conventionally washed mushrooms and untreated controls. Examination by scanning electron microscopy showed damage to hyphae producing a matted appearance at the pileus surface with both experimental and conventional washed samples. Mushrooms after the experimental wash had an elevated sodium content from the sodium erythorbate browning inhibitor but contained no H2O2 residue, In pileus tissue, soluble phenol levels were higher and the content of free amino acids was lower in mushrooms after the experimental wash. No other notable compositional differences or adverse effects of treatment on quality were found.