Application of residual polysaccharide-degrading enzymes in dried shiitake mushrooms as an enzyme preparation in food processing

Objective

To examine the activities of residual enzymes in dried shiitake mushrooms, which are a traditional foodstuff in Japanese cuisine, for possible applications in food processing.

Results

Polysaccharide-degrading enzymes remained intact in dried shiitake mushrooms and the activities of amylase, β-glucosidase and pectinase were high. A potato digestion was tested using dried shiitake powder. The enzymes reacted with potato tuber specimens to solubilize sugars even under a heterogeneous solid-state condition and that their reaction modes were different at 38 and 50 °C.

Conclusion

Dried shiitake mushrooms have a potential use in food processing as an enzyme preparation.