FOODiQ Global and Australian Mushrooms recently teamed up with The Shoreline Luxury Retirement Living in Coffs Harbour to launch an innovative study aimed at boosting vitamin D and overall nutrient intake among aged care residents. The Mushrooms on the Menu (MoM) project introduced UV-exposed mushrooms into daily meals to tackle the widespread issue of vitamin D deficiency in aged care.
The launch event featured live cooking demonstrations, nutrition talks, and insights into the Australian mushroom industry. Chef Adam Moore wowed attendees with mushroom brownies and mushrooms on toast, while Executive Chef Andrew Wright impressed with his mushroom pinwheels, much to the delight of residents and guests.
Key Benefits of UV-Exposed Mushrooms in Aged Care:
Boosts Vitamin D Intake: A daily serving of 75g of UV-exposed mushrooms easily meets or exceeds the recommended vitamin D intake, offering a simple and effective dietary solution.
Tasty and Versatile: Mushrooms were incorporated into popular dishes such as quiche, cottage pie, and mushroom gravy, enhancing both the flavour and nutritional value of familiar meals.
Improved Health and Wellbeing: The study highlighted how increasing vitamin D intake through mushrooms can support bone health and reduce the risk of fractures, a common issue in older populations.
Lasting Impact: Even after the event, residents expressed continued enthusiasm for mushroom-based meals, demonstrating long-term enjoyment and health benefits.
Cost-Effective: Mushrooms provide a budget-friendly solution to boost nutrient intake without increasing food costs.
Groundbreaking Research: This study is the first of its kind to explore the practicality of adding UV-exposed mushrooms to aged care menus, with promising results for future implementation.
Led by Dr Flávia Fayet-Moore (PhD, Nutrition) and Lucy Downey from FOODiQ Global, the study demonstrated how UV-exposed mushrooms – a unique source of nutrients – can play a key role in addressing nutrient deficiencies. As Dr Fayet-Moore noted, “By including UV-exposed mushrooms in aged care menus, it could boost their vitamin D intake and improve the health and wellbeing of aged care residents.”
Results:
The study showed that adding UV-exposed mushrooms tripled vitamin D intake among aged care residents, with 75% meeting their daily requirements.
Independent living participants increased their vitamin D intake eightfold, with 100% meeting their recommended levels.
This event and study showcased the potential of UV-exposed mushrooms as a delicious, practical, and cost-effective solution for improving the health of aged care residents across Australia.