# Development of Straw Mushroom (Volvariella volvacea)–Based Broth and Crackers: Nutritional, Microbial, and Antioxidant Evaluation

## TL;DR

Straw mushroom-based broths and crackers were developed and found to be nutritious, safe, and rich in antioxidants, offering a healthier alternative to snacks with MSG.

## Contribution

The study introduces and evaluates straw mushroom-based broths and crackers as a natural alternative to synthetic food additives.

## Key findings

- Mushroom-based broths and crackers met microbial safety standards and showed high antioxidant capacity.
- Formulation F2 (100 g mushroom powder) in crackers was optimal for nutrition and safety.
- Higher mushroom content in broths correlated with increased antioxidant levels.

## Abstract

Straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) may offer a natural, flavorful alternative to synthetic food additives such as monosodium glutamate (MSG). This study was aimed at developing safe and nutritious straw mushroom–based broths and crackers that meet consumer demands for healthier snack options without compromising taste. Broth formulations with 25%, 50%, and 75% mushroom content and crackers containing 50, 100, and 150 g mushroom powder were produced using a freeze-drying technique. All samples, including controls without mushrooms, were analyzed for microbial safety (total plate count [TPC] and mold yeast count [MYC]), nutritional composition, and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). Results showed that all broth and cracker formulations met BPOM (Indonesian Agency of Drug and Food Control) microbial safety standards, with higher mushroom concentrations, with the 75% broth achieving the highest value (2.86 ± 0.02 μmol TE/g DW), suggesting enhanced potential health benefits due to higher antioxidant content. Cracker formulations demonstrated nutritional profiles with moisture (2.16%–6.28%), ash (3.76%–4.39%), protein (12.36%–15.39%), fat (12.77%–15.74%), and carbohydrate (61.73%–65.98%). Microbial contamination in all cracker samples remained within safe limits. Among the cracker variants, formulation F2 (100 g mushroom powder) was optimal based on nutritional value and microbial safety. In conclusion, both straw mushroom–based broths and crackers demonstrated promising nutritional quality, safety, and antioxidant potential, supporting their viability as healthier alternatives to MSG-containing snacks.