Changshan Edible Fungi

Changshan Edible Fungi

　　Changshan County is located in the mountainous region of western Zhejiang, where lush green mountains and clear waters have created an ideal “natural cultivation zone” for edible fungi. In 1978, Changshan successfully cultivated the “Changshan Hedgehog Mushroom,” adding a treasured product to Zhejiang’s agricultural offerings. Then in 1986, the second-generation product—enoki mushrooms—was introduced. Not only do they stand out as ornamental fungi due to their elegant appearance and golden color, but they also entered state banquets thanks to their unique texture and various medicinal benefits.

　　To date, Changshan’s edible fungi industry has developed into eight major categories comprising over ten varieties, including hedgehog mushrooms, enoki mushrooms, straw mushrooms, shiitake mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, lingzhi (reishi), chicken leg mushrooms, and king oyster mushrooms. Among them, three varieties are unique to Changshan: the “No. 99” hedgehog mushroom, the “851” yellow enoki mushroom, and the “9013” white enoki mushroom. These not only exhibit strong adaptability and resistance but also offer high yields and excellent quality, making them highly suitable for promotion. The Changshan hedgehog mushroom contains 26.3% protein and 19 types of amino acids, seven of which are essential for the human body, with a total content of 32 milligrams per 100 grams.

　　There is a wide range of processed edible fungus products from Changshan, including over twenty varieties across five categories: canned goods, dried products, salted products, health supplements, and pharmaceuticals. Among them, canned enoki mushrooms, canned hedgehog mushrooms, and dried hedgehog mushrooms have all been awarded provincial and ministerial-level quality product titles. As the deep processing of edible fungi continues to advance, new products such as fungal injections, tablets, capsules, grain pastes, oral liquids, ointments, as well as fungal-based animal feed, are expected to be developed.