In 2023, gastronomy experts, dieticians, and chefs expect a further shift in eating habits towards healthier and more eco-friendly, sustainable nutrition. According to several professional forums, one of the most important gastro trends this year will be the consumption of edible mushroom varieties.
Cultivated mushrooms, such as Champignons and Pleutorus, varieties also produced by Boglar Champ, are increasingly becoming a prominent ingredient in reform cooking. Due to their rich umami taste, their much lower environmental impact than meat products, their lower cost, and, last but not least, their effects on health, more and more restaurants are enriching their menus with mushroom dishes.
Another important gastronomic trend in 2023 is the further increase in the popularity of food coming from local producers. Consumers are becoming more aware, and are paying more and more attention to ensure that the origin of the food they choose is geographically as close as possible. They also prefer chemical-free, healthy products. Boglar Champ’s mushrooms are chemical-free as well: we disinfect our growing rooms with steam, thus preventing bacteria growth and the spread of various diseases without chemicals.
But why are mushrooms so healthy?
Because they are proven to be among the best cholesterol-lowering foods.
According to research, the consumption of oyster mushrooms effectively lowers cholesterol levels. This superfood contains a large amount of antioxidants, vitamins B, D, C and K, proteins, sterols, chromium, copper, iron, iodine, sodium, selenium, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus. It has an anti-inflammatory, blood pressure, and blood sugar level regulating effect, it improves metabolism and is cell-regenerating, which is why it is used to treat several diseases, especially in the Eastern medicine. By the way, all edible mushrooms are an important element of a healthy diet low in fat and animal-derived foods, because they are low in calories, high in protein and fiber, and at the same time contain several vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Because they lower blood pressure.
Foods high in potassium, magnesium, and calcium have a blood pressure-lowering effect. If our blood pressure is high, dried legumes (beans, peas, lentils), vegetables (potatoes, celery, tomatoes, kale, carrots, scallions, sorrel, spinach), mushrooms, fruits (pomegranates, citrus fruits, avocados, bananas, dark berries, grapes), oilseeds, low-fat milk and dairy products, fish, and whole grains.
Because they are high in B vitamins.
Our body needs all of them for the good functioning of the immune system, nervous system, metabolism, and hair, skin, and nail health. One of the best non-animal sources of B vitamins are mushrooms. For example, Champignons are an excellent source of vitamins B2, B3, B5. If you crave a delicious meal high in Bs, pair mushrooms with spinach, radishes, or even lentils!
Because it is one of the best natural sources of vitamin D.
Mushrooms are an excellent source of vitamin D, and if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, it is of primary importance for you to eat a lot of mushrooms. The daily requirement of vitamin D can be covered by eating about 10 dkg of mushrooms (that is, let’s say, three mushrooms) if the hats are “sunlit” beforehand. What does that mean? We expose the mushrooms to the sun for 30-60 minutes before cooking, because vitamin D is produced in them under the influence of UV light!
Because they are rich in selenium.
Many, and unfortunately, more and more people are affected by cancer, diabetes, under- or overfunctioning of the thyroid gland, hormonal obesity, high cholesterol, narrowing of blood vessels, cardiovascular problems, or infertility. Selenium is a very important mineral for our body, and according to experts, an adequate intake of it can help prevent these diseases. Champignons are an excellent source of selenium, eating just 10 dkg – that is, 3-4 pieces – makes up for half of an adult’s daily selenium needs.
So let’s eat even more mushrooms in 2023!
