Our first Biology issue.

July is usually our spawn and supplement issue. This year we decided to change the theme to Biology so we could cover other categories that don't quite fit into our regular themes. We hope you will enjoy reading about some new topics.

The Mushroom Council Nutrition Research Update by Mary Jo Feeney describes the results of mushroom research projects on nutrient and bioactive composition. Studies were undertaken to discover the role mushrooms play in health promotion, weight loss and disease prevention. While the research has come a long way, more studies are needed. The article describes the projects, findings and implications. The nutrition advisory panel is listed and information on the immune system is outlined.

Developments in biotechnology, fresh-cut produce and lab testing for produce are explored in Monitoring Issues Affecting the Produce Industry complied by the Produce Marketing Association. Biotechnology techniques or genetic engineering principles are discussed along with benefits, regulations and safety of the process. Fresh-cut produce is a rapidly growing segment of the produce industry and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration released food safety guidance to minimize microbial food safety hazards. The article outlines various microorganisms found on produce, tests for specific pathogens and interpreting test results.

Catherine Greene describes progress of the organic produce movement in U.S. Organic Farm Sector Continues to Expand. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) set uniform organic standards in 2000. Most commodities in the organic farm sector have grown during this time including mushroom production. Data on certification by state and other crop statistics are shown. The most recent numbers for certified organic Agaricus and specialty mushrooms are given.

Be sure to read the AMI Update because it outlines a proposed revision for pesticide tolerance for minor crop producers.

--Sara Manning, Mushroom News Editor