Effects of various treatments on intrinsic properties of Agaricusbisporus

Two types of Agaricusbisporus (Close button and open cup) mushrooms were examined for the possible effect(s) of various treatments on the enzymatic activities and microflora on the mushroom. Different parts of the mushroom were investigated which included: the internal gills, the stem (stipe) and the skin which were also compared. The catalase positive micro-organisms were observed to dominate the microflora. Blanching at different temperatures was carried out to know the effects on enzymes present in the mushrooms, possible reasons for this were advanced. Catalase and peroxidase enzymes were examined for the extent of inactivation in the metabolic activities and catalase was particularly observed to lose activity more than peroxidase. Reasons were given for the differences in rate of activity