Are mushrooms a Vegetable?

When it comes to whether mushrooms are considered a vegetable, you might be surprised to know that the answer can be different depending on where you are in the world. In the United Kingdom and Scotland, mushrooms are not typically considered to be a vegetable.

According to experts, mushrooms are classified as a type of fungi, which is a separate organism classification from plants. The British Nutrition Foundation states that “Mushrooms are not considered to be a vegetable, but rather a type of fungus.” The Scottish Government also classifies mushrooms as a type of fungi in their document “Scotland’s Natural Larder” stating that “Mushrooms are the fruiting body of a type of fungi, and are not considered to be a vegetable.”

But just because mushrooms aren’t considered a vegetable, doesn’t mean they aren’t packed with nutrients! Mushrooms are a great source of vitamin D, potassium, and antioxidants. They are also low in calories and high in fiber. Plus, they are a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans as a source of plant-based protein.

So, even though mushrooms may not be considered a vegetable, they are still a tasty and nutritious addition to many meals. So, don’t be afraid to add them to your next salad, stir-fry or any recipe you like! Or you could even take them as supplements!