As global population rises, mushroom production and consumption have increased correspondingly. Mushrooms have emerged as pivotal sources of both nutrients and medicinal compounds. The growing demand for diverse mushroom varieties stems from their delightful organoleptic qualities, enticing aroma, and high protein and nutrient concentrations. Enriched with an array of vitamins and minerals, mushrooms mitigate the risk of numerous human diseases. The texture of button mushrooms is firm yet tender, with a slight springiness which degrade with due course of time. They have very short shelf life due to its perishable nature. Chemical treatments help to maintain good texture of button mushroom which increase the shelf life button mushrooms. Sorbitol, Citric acid and Calcium Chloride can be used for maintaining the shelf life. 2.5% CaCl2, 3% citric acid, 0.1% sorbitol can effectively maintain the texture of button mushroom up to 12 days and also helps to prevent enzymatic browning and microbial spoilage. The texture of button mushroom is very important factor in determining their market value as it directly impacts consumer satisfaction, perceived quality, shelf life, and competitive positioning

Button mushroom, Texture profile analysis, Calcium Chloride, sorbitol, citric acid

All the textural properties showed declining behaviour with respect to storage period. Texture, organoleptic taste, aroma, flavour and colour degraded with time. Major degradation in button mushroom was due to loss of firmness and tissue softening. Chemical treatments are very effective method for maintaining firmness of edible products especially button mutton mushroom (Shbeeb et al., 2021). These results suggest that chemical treatments of button mushroom has potential in maintaining mushroom quality and extending its shelf life up to 12 days when stored at 8oC. Further Chemical treatments can also be explored with other biochemical and physical treatments of button mushrooms

Pallavi Srivastava, Pravin Prakash and Sangeeta Pandey (2024). Exploring the Impact of Chemical Treatments on Textural Properties and Post-Harvest Longevity of Button Mushrooms: A Comprehensive Investigation. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 16(6): 18-22.