Characterisation of Edible Mushrooms Cultivated on Agricultural Waste in Nasarawa State

Edible mushroom cultivation on agricultural waste substrates offers a dual opportunity for protein-rich food production and organic waste valorisation in Nigeria. This study characterises three species of edible mushrooms, namely Pleurotus ostreatus, Pleurotus pulmonarius, and Lentinus subnudus, cultivated on substrates of sawdust, rice straw, and sorghum stalk in Lafia, Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria. Spawn production and substrate preparation were conducted using established protocols, and mushrooms were harvested at two flush cycles. Biological efficiency, proximate composition, amino acid profile, mineral content, and anti-nutritional factors were determined for each species-substrate combination. Results showed that Pleurotus ostreatus on rice straw achieved the highest biological efficiency of 112 percent. Crude protein content across species ranged from 18.5 to 26.2 percent on a dry weight basis, with all essential amino acids present. Iron content was highest in Lentinus subnudus at 12.3 mg per 100g dry weight. Anti-nutritional factors including oxalates and phytates were within safe limits across all samples. Sensory evaluation by 30 panellists rated Pleurotus ostreatus as most acceptable in taste and texture. The study draws on recent literature on mushroom biotechnology and food applications in Nigeria. Findings are relevant to agricultural waste management, protein food diversification, and small enterprise development in Nasarawa State. Keywords: edible mushroom, Pleurotus, biological efficiency, agricultural waste, Nasarawa State