Rich in vitamin D, mushrooms help boost our immunity better than any of their superfood counterparts.
- New data suggests mushrooms are coming through in the fast lane to overtake avocados as the nation’s favourite superfood
- Just eight Vitamin D rich mushrooms provides the average adult daily allowance
- Nutritionists continually urge us to get more vitamin D into our diets to help boost our all-important immunity
- And, mushrooms are positively magic – place them in sunlight and immediately increase their vitamin D content
Hailed for its nutritionally rich profile and key health benefits, the millennial-friendly avocado has an arch-rival. New research commissioned by UK & Ireland Mushroom Producers has revealed that the once unstoppable avocado could soon be old news, with mushrooms ready to take the top spot on the superfood chart.
Contrary to common belief about the popularity of avocados, a surprising 48 per cent of people confessed that they either do not like or do not eat them.
Research has further revealed that 75% of Brits said they preferred or were equally partial to the humble mushroom over avocados.
So, have avos had their day?
Nutritionist and author, Amelia Freer, explains why mushrooms are now qualified to join the ranks of other so-called superfoods:
“Mushrooms are neglected at our peril in the fruit and veg rainbow we are encouraged to eat. High in antioxidants, they’re commonly overlooked as a significant source of the sunshine vitamin D. As a key vitamin essential in supporting a normal immune system, vitamin D plays a vital role in keeping our bones healthy, as it works to regulate our intake of calcium, magnesium and phosphorous.
As we settle into the ‘new normal’, consumers have become increasingly focused on the health benefits of the food and drink they consume, with more than half of the nation claiming to have adopted healthier lifestyles post-pandemic.
This trend is particularly prevalent among the younger generations, with data revealing that 25% of those under 35-years of age in the UK are now eating healthier specifically for improved immunity as a result of Covid-191.
Mushrooms, which are a natural source of vitamin D, have benefited from this consumer shift in mindset, with Kantar data revealing that the total volume sales of mushrooms in the UK are currently forecasted to rise 24.3% year on year.
Urging households to become more label-aware when shopping, Freer, suggests taking a moment to look carefully at packs that call out added benefits. “If you can’t get your hands on vitamin D enriched mushrooms and can only find regular mushrooms, here’s a little tip: place them on the window sill on a sunny day and in as little as an hour or two they become a rich source of vitamin D – magic.”