In a sequel of papers we have investigated effects of different physical contributions to the water holding
capacity of foods by considering the common white button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus). In the current
paper of our sequel, we consider individual contributions of the cellular phase to water holding. The
water holding capacity of hydrated mushroom is studied in relation to cell membrane integrity loss and
change of state of structural polymers of the cell wall. We show that the loss in water holding capacity
after heat treatment is closely correlated with cell membrane integrity loss. The intrinsic water holding
capacity of the cell wall components, mostly chitin and proteins also play a role. The contribution of
protein manifests largely via a significant response of WHC towards change in pH