A comparative profiling of bioactive compounds and elemental composition in three globally distributed edible mushrooms: Pleurotus ostreatus , Hericium coralloides , and Tuber aestivum

This study compares the bioactive and elemental compositions of three edible mushroom species: Pleurotus ostreatus, Hericium coralloides, and Tuber aestivum. The results showed similar levels of antioxidants, polysaccharides, triterpenoids, and ascorbic acid across all species, but significant differences in other compounds. H. coralloides had the highest flavonoid and astaxanthin contents, while P. ostreatus showed greater total phenolic levels. Both P. ostreatus and H. coralloides contained more tannins than T. aestivum. Mineral analysis revealed that T. aestivum absorbed more calcium, phosphorus, and sodium, whereas P. ostreatus accumulated more potassium and magnesium. No lead or mercury was detected, and although T. aestivum showed slightly higher cadmium and chromium levels, they remained within safe limits. Overall, despite its higher market value, T. aestivum did not display superior nutritional quality, emphasising the potential for species-specific value-added applications.