Plant Growth Regulator Residues in Edible Mushrooms: Are They Hazardous?

Mushroom production and economic value on a global scale are significantly increasing. On the other hand, food safety has raised concerns; however, limited research exists on the presence of plant growth regulator (PGR) residues in edible mushrooms. Herein, this study appears to be the first to comprehensively investigate PGR residual characteristics and assess their associated dietary exposure risks to consumers. A total of 105 edible mushroom samples of seven different varieties were analyzed, and the overall detection rate was 81%. The residual level of PGRs ranged from below the limit of detection to 6.308 mg/kg. Among varieties, 100% of A. aegerita, T. fuciformis Berk, and H. erinaceus samples contained at least one PGR residue. Dietary exposure risks were assessed using both deterministic and probabilistic approaches. Calculated values of both %ADI (acceptable daily intake) and %ARfD (acute reference dose)were below 100 and do not indicate a potential health concern with respect to edible mushroom consumption. However, several PGRs had a relatively high %ADI or %ARfD value, suggesting that the Maximum Residual Limits (MRLs) and associated regulatory norms should be immediately established. This work not only provides valuable information for edible mushroom consumers but also an important reference for the risk management decision.