Which technology has been used to improve vitamin D concentration in mushrooms?
Scientists at the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)-Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR) have found a new way to increase vitamin D levels in mushrooms. They did this by using ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation.
The scientists made a machine that shines this UVB light on the mushrooms. They used Elm oyster mushrooms for their research.
This is one of six horticulture-related inventions that will be shown at the National Horticulture Fair (NHF).
How can increasing vitamin D concentration in mushrooms help?
Mushrooms are good for us. They help our bodies stay healthy and strong. Some scientists say shining ultraviolet (UV) light on mushrooms can make them even better. This light helps increase vitamin D levels in mushrooms.
This can help solve the global vitamin D deficiency problem. Vitamin D is super important for our bodies. It helps us avoid illnesses such as rickets. However, commercially produced mushrooms don't have enough vitamin D because they are grown in the dark. So, UV light can be used to increase the amount of vitamin D in mushrooms.
More studies will be done on these mushrooms before they can be made available to the public.
What is the National Horticulture Fair?
This fair is all about showing new farming technologies. It will feature lots of cool farming technologies from all over India. The fair will be held in Bengaluru from 5th to 7th March 2024.
The theme for this year’s fair is "NextGen Technology Led Horticulture for Sustainable Development.” You can find out more about the fair here.
