4. Conclusion
Mushrooms can be used as source of alternative food in addition to fortification or supplementation of diet for enhanced nutrition.
Production of mushroom in India is relatively poor (0.1 million tons) compared to current world production (3.5 million tons).
Efforts from both public and private organizations are required to increase the mushroom production and export which will guarantee positive effect on country's economy as well as quality alternative food or supplement.
Training and sensitization on traditional and alternative approach to mushrooms are to be initiated.
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotusspp.) are ranked second in terms of mushroom world production.
In this study, we report the nutritional parameters of P. sajor-caju SCP grown in alternative fermentation medium, deproteinized whey.
It may be concluded that essential amino acid profile in the P. sajor-caju SCP meets the requirements recommended by FAO except sulphur containing amino acids.
Relatively low nucleic acid content, presence of essential minerals and PUFA (linoleic acid) and high amount of folic acid in the SCP of P. sajor-caju makes it an attractive candidate for alternative food source or fortification of diets low in nutritive value.
Additionally, utilization of lactose of whey by this fermentation procedure provides an excellent way to reduce the BOD of whey and environmental pollution