What is the difference between Huapi matsutake and matsutake?

Matsutake is a natural medicinal mushroom with extremely high nutritional value, and its composition contains a variety of active substances found only in matsutake, so it is widely used internationally to make medicines, health products and cosmetics. Huapi matsutake looks extremely similar to matsutake in appearance, and their harvest seasons are also the same, so consumers often buy Huapi matsutake passed off as matsutake without paying attention. So where exactly do the differences between Huapi matsutake and matsutake lie?

1. The differences between Huapi matsutake and matsutake

1. Different color:

The color of matsutake is a fresh chestnut color, while the color of Huapi matsutake is a relatively dazzling bright red.

2. Different grain:

The grain and fibers of matsutake are straight, and the grain is relatively clear, while the grain of Huapi matsutake is not so easy to distinguish and looks fuzzy.

3. Different taste:

Huapi matsutake and matsutake differ in taste; Huapi matsutake feels relatively crisp when bitten, unlike matsutake, which is chewy.

4. Different quantity:

Because matsutake cannot be artificially cultivated, it does not appear in large quantities, while Huapi matsutake is relatively easy to cultivate and is also more abundant on the market.

5. Different effects

Matsutake is a natural medicinal mushroom with extremely high nutritional value; although Huapi matsutake also has a certain nutritional value, it is far inferior to genuine matsutake.

2. How to choose matsutake

1. Ask about the place of origin

The four major matsutake-producing areas in China are mainly Shangri-La in Yunnan, Yajiang in Sichuan, Sdana in Sichuan and Xiaojin County in Sichuan. At present, the variety recognized by the market as China's best matsutake is the one produced in Shangri-La.

2. Look at the color

The color of fresh matsutake is mainly pale yellow or off-white. Yellowed matsutake may already have spoiled, or may have been treated with sulfite, which is harmful to the human body. In addition, thin or deformed matsutake cannot provide complete nutrition and is of very poor quality.

3. Look at the moisture

Some matsutake on the market has been soaked in water. This not only affects the taste, but during the preservation of matsutake, the moisture will destroy the fibers and active nutrients of fresh matsutake, thereby affecting quality.

4. Smell the aroma

Matsutake of relatively good quality, when smelled carefully, has a unique aroma; this indicates relatively good quality. If no smell can be detected, then it means the matsutake is not so fresh anymore.

That is all for our discussion of the relevant knowledge about matsutake. When buying on the market, be sure to distinguish carefully to avoid buying counterfeit or inferior products.