Edible mushrooms make up only a small fraction of the vast number of fungi on the planet. These mushrooms are grown and farmed commercially, in addition to being a hobby for many. The cultivated mushrooms can be sold fresh and also in cans.
You might wonder if the canned mushrooms that you see in the store offer any significant advantages vs fresh mushrooms. Are canned mushrooms good for you? Let’s dive into this article and find out!
What are Canned Mushrooms?
The canning process of mushrooms refers to slicing fresh mushrooms and packing the pieces in brine. Brine is a solution of salt and water. It is used for food preservation.
After being placed in the brine, the mushrooms are sealed shut in airtight containers, where they often remain for months. The cans are transported to stores, where they remain until being bought by customers.
Canned mushrooms are a viable alternative to fresh mushrooms. While they will not provide the same earthy flavor and texture or the protein content that fresh mushrooms offer, they still have many of the vitamins and minerals that the human body needs. For example, riboflavin, niacin, potassium, phosphorus, copper, pantothenic acid, and selenium.
These mushrooms can be added to pasta sauces, stews, and casseroles to enhance the flavor of these dishes with their umami taste.
Health Benefits of Canned Mushrooms
When it comes to mushrooms, fresh ones might come to mind first. However, canned mushrooms pack quite a punch when it comes to health benefits. Here’s how canned mushrooms can be beneficial for your health:
Stronger Bones and Healthier Teeth: Canned mushrooms are a source of phosphorus. It is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and durability of your bones and teeth. Including them in your diet can contribute to overall bone health.
Stomach Health: The dietary fiber found in these mushrooms supports a healthy digestive system. Your body needs fiber to help keep everything moving along in your intestines. This can help you steer clear of constipation and maintain a healthy stomach.
Energy Boost: Canned mushrooms contain vitamins like riboflavin and niacin. These nutrients are involved in transforming the food you eat into energy. This gives you that extra pep to enjoy your daily activities.
Stay Fit: For those keeping an eye on their waistline, mushrooms are a smart choice. They are low in calories, which means you can add them to your meals for an extra flavor boost while staying at a healthy weight. They make it easier to enjoy your meals while staying on track with your fitness goals.
Other Benefits of Canned Mushrooms
Convenience
Canned mushrooms are a great convenience. Since they are cleaned, sliced, and cooked already, they can readily be added to a variety of dishes. They are a convenient option for busy home cooks. If you want to whip up a quick meal, these mushrooms can make you feel refreshed and ready to go.
Shelf Life
Canned mushrooms have a longer shelf life than fresh ones. If the mushroom can is unopened, the fungi inside can remain good for a long while. This means you can buy the mushrooms whenever possible and use them when needed.
However, once the mushrooms are opened, it is best to use them within a few days. They can be good for up to a week or even ten days. The can should be stored in the fridge once opened.
Affordability
When comparing fresh and canned mushrooms, canned ones are more budget-friendly. Fresh mushrooms have a stronger taste and texture, but they get spoiled quicker and can be seasonal. This makes them more in demand and hence more expensive.
Canned mushrooms are typically more budget-friendly than fresh mushrooms because they have a longer shelf life and a lower cost of production. They are a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious consumers.
Things to Watch Out For
When buying canned mushrooms, it is important to be mindful of a few things. Canned products, including mushrooms, often contain preservatives. These help keep the mushrooms safe and fresh for a longer time after they have been grown and harvested (for example, from a monotub).
Canned mushrooms are often preserved in a brine solution, which is a mixture of sodium and water. Sodium, or as we usually call it, salt, is perfectly fine in small amounts.
Too much of it can be a problem. Eating too much salt can lead to health issues, especially for your heart. Even half a serving of canned mushrooms might pack in more salt than you’d expect.
If you’re keeping an eye on your salt intake, here’s a quick tip: rinse your canned mushrooms. Giving them a good rinse under cold water can wash away some of the extra salt. This way, you can still enjoy your mushrooms without overdoing it on the salt.
So, Are They Good for You?
Yes, canned mushrooms can be really good for you! They have lots of nutrients that help your body in different ways. They can support healthy bones, improve your digestion, and provide you with energy. They also contain fewer calories, so they can help you lose weight. There are also many other benefits when comparing canned and fresh mushrooms.
Canned mushrooms are also more affordable, have a longer shelf life, and are more convenient to use. Once you’ve opened the container, just make sure to rinse these mushrooms if you’re watching your salt intake. Also, be sure to put the opened can in a fridge. Use the remaining mushrooms within a few days.