L. edodes (shiitake mushroom) has been found possessing bio-active food components capable of conferring anti-oxidative defence and curtailing LDL oxidation as well as being potent in inhibiting the activity of the rate limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis, thus supporting its use as an anti-atherosclerotic agent. Food bio-components including α-tocopherol (vitamin E), oleic acid, linoleic acid, ergosterol and butyric acid present in L.