Mushroom-Based Supplements in Italy: Let's Open Pandora's Box

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology and Mycology
• Nutraceutical Science
• Food Quality Control

Background:

• Medicinal mushrooms possess diverse health benefits and pharmacological activities.
• Marketed as food supplements, their safety is often linked to a "history of consumption."
• Concerns exist regarding the manufacturing practices and quality of mushroom products, particularly those sourced internationally.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze mushroom-based dietary supplements for monotherapy on the Italian market.
• To evaluate the composition and quality of these supplements.
• To ensure the safety of origin and genetic purity of mycotherapy products.

Main Methods:

• Molecular identification of fungal DNA sequences using GenBank.
• Analysis of active fungal ingredients: ergosterol, aflatoxins, heavy metals, nicotine, and total glucan.
• Comparison of identified species with label information for 19 different samples.

Main Results:

• 6 out of 19 samples were molecularly identified as the species listed on the label (Lentinula edodes, Ganoderma lucidum).
• Ganoderma samples labeled as G. lucidum showed high homology with G. resinaceum and G. sichuanense.
• Analysis of active ingredients and contaminants provided further quality insights.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights variability in the quality and taxonomic accuracy of mushroom supplements available in Italy.
• Some products may not meet required quality criteria due to misidentification or origin concerns.
• Further research and stringent quality control are needed to ensure the safety and efficacy of medicinal mushroom products.