| Summary: | The mushroom industry generates large amounts of stem co-product. This is generated after mushroom harvest; stems are attached to the growth substratum, and their only use has traditionally been as compost. In this study, we investigated extensively for the first time this co-product and the influence of sample size (L—>0.510 mm; LI—0.510–0.315 mm; SI—0.315–0.180 mm; S—<0.180 mm) on the characterization and antioxidant activity of flours obtained from stem co-products of <i>Agaricus bisporus</i> (ABSF) and <i>Pleurotus ostreatus</i> (POSF). ABSF was rich in protein (14 g/100 g), calcium (428.23–700.77 mg/100 g), and sorbitol (22.57–26.60 g/100 g), while POSF was rich in β-glucans (36.62–40.34 g/100 g) and linoleic acid (20.57–39.86 g/100 g of lipid). Both species were flush in amino acids and had an umami flavour. ABSF showed more elevated values for emulsifying activity than POSF. The S sizes were highlighted for their yield, hydration properties, and oil holding capacity. Furthermore, ABSF-S exhibited heightened antioxidant capacity in vitro, in consonance with the total phenolic compounds observed (0.91 mg/g). However, the antioxidant assays in POSF presented a positive correlation with β-glucan content. Our study suggests that these co-products could have several food-related applications, such as potential for use as an emulsifier, sweetener, or fortifier in the development of functional food, owing to their rich concentrations of fibre, protein, sorbitol, and β-glucans. Nevertheless, it is necessary to understand the interactions of the flours with the potential food matrix prior to proceeding further with food-related applications.
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