Black fungi and snow fungi are common edible fungi that are rich in nutrients. The Consumer Council of Hong Kong tested 28 samples of pre-packaged dried edible fungus, including black fungus, white back fungus, and snow fungus, and found that at least one pesticide was detected in 12 samples, with metal contaminants detected in all the tested samples.
The Consumer Council collected samples of ten types of black fungus, nine types of white back fungus, and nine types of snow fungus from August to September 2022. It tested their nutritional value and food safety. In terms of nutrition, the study tested the soluble and insoluble fiber content of the samples, as well as the content of three minerals, namely calcium, iron, and potassium. Food safety tests included six metal contaminants (total arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, total mercury, and antimony), pesticide residues, and two preservatives, including benzoic acid and sulfur dioxide.
