Characterization and comparison of chemical compositions and biological activities of an edible mushroom (Lactarius volemus) of three different sizes

Characterization and comparison of the chemical compositions and biological activities of Lactarius volemus of three different sizes (large size, medium size, small size) were investigated in this work. By comparing three sizes of Lactarius volemus, the small-sized Lactarius volemus had the highest content of crude fiber, fat, crude protein, total sugar, reducing sugar, polyphenols, and total flavonoids, whereas medium-sized Lactarius volemus showed the highest content of ash and total amino acids. Meanwhile, the small-sized Lactarius volemus also exhibited the best 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhy drazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging ability, α-amylase inhibitory activity, α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, and xanthine oxidase inhibitory activity. The small-sized Lactarius volemus had the highest chemical composition content and the best biological activities among the three different sizes. This work might provide basic data support for guiding the development of Lactarius volemus and also instruct consumers in selecting and purchasing high-quality Lactarius volemus.