Nutritional composition of Termitomyces robustus (Agaricomycetes) and Lentinus squarrosulus (Mont.) singer in South East Nigeria

Abstract

Termitomyces robustus (Agaricomycetes) and Lentinus squarrosulus (Mont.) Singer mushrooms are considered as important source of nutrient. They are used as remedy for treatment of various ailments in Southeastern part of Nigeria, yet there is inadequate documentation on the nutritional composition of these mushrooms. This study therefore aimed at evaluating the nutritional composition of the two mushrooms. The assayed phytochemicals were ≤ 1.35% in the two mushrooms. Phenols, flavonoids and anthocyanin were greater in amount in T. robustus than L. squarrosulus. Both mushrooms revealed high amount of carbohydrate and crude protein contents. Highest micronutrient in mg/100 g was recorded in phosphorous (P) in L. squarrosulus, while the least elemental was Zn2+ in T. robustus. All the quantified minerals and vitamins except K+ and vitamin C were greater in amount in L. squarrosulus than T. robustus while, vitamin K was not detected in the two mushrooms. The dominant fatty acid in the tested samples was oleic acid (C18:1) with the highest value recorded followed by stearic acid and palmitic acid in T. robustus. Essential and non-essential amino acids were all present in the two mushrooms with least value and highest values recorded in cysteine and glutamic acid respectively. Data showed that T. robustus and L. squarrosulus are nutrient compliant and could ameliorate deficiencies associated with malnutrition.