Mushrooms are not veges although they are often referred to as such.

They are a unique plant food in that they are very low in carbohydrates because they can't photosynthesis sugars. Mushrooms are again unique in that they contain Vitamin B12, something that vegetables can't produce at all. (Vegetarians who don't eat any meat products may find this a useful way of getting this important nutrient).

Nutritionally, mushrooms are also a good source of niacin containing as much as in meat (niacin helps body cells obtain energy from food). Mushrooms also contribute some dietary fibre and small amounts of many of the other B-complex vitamins including folate. (B vitamins are important for healthy cells and tissues and help the body use the energy from proteins, fats and carbohydrates).

Mushrooms have virtually no fat and are therefore very low in kilojoules and like all vegetables they are a cholesterol free food.

Mushrooms Facts

• only 50 kilojoules (12 calories)
• virtually no fat (0.2g)
• no cholestrol
• 2.3g protein
• 0.2g carbohydrate
• 93% water
• 6mg sodium
• 18 µg folate