Proximate and minerals composition of Agaricus subsaharianus L.A.Parra, Hama and De Kesel and Macrocybe lobayensis (Heim) Peg. and Lodge two wild edible mushrooms used in Niger

Mushrooms are widely consumed because of their nutritional virtues. The objective of this study was to determine the proximate and mineral composition of Macrocybe lobayensis and Agaricus subsaharianus two wild edible mushrooms used in Niger. The proximate and mineral composition were determined on dry weight basis using standard method. The results of proximate analysis showed that the moisture content was in the range of 9.08 and 10.03%, that of ash in the range of 10.46 and 08.48%. They are rich in protein (20.66 and 28.09%) and carbohydrates (57.55 and 54.42%), poor in fat (2.45 and 3.28%). In addition, their consumption would provide energy between 267.99 and 342.36 kcal/100g. For the chemical characterization of the ash, the results showed sodium contents ranging from 69.67mg/100g to 72.09mg/100, Calcium 35.67mg/100g to 39.18mg/100g, Iron 6.25mg/100g to 6.43mg/100g, Potassium 330.45mg/100g to 439.67mg/100g, Magnesium 41.83mg/100g to 365.61mg/100g, Copper 2.41mg/100g to 2.70mg/100g, Zinc 3.02mg/100g to 3,05mg/100g and Phosphorus 1298.35mg/100g to 1792.17mg/100g. These nutrients varied widely among the mushrooms species. According to the result A. subsaharianus and M. lobayensis can be good sources of protein for the rural populations in Niger who face nutritional diseases.