The effect of savory oil on controlling green mold disease of edible mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) and increasing its yield and some quality characteristics

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 University of tehran

2 Middle East Fruit Knowledge Institute

3 Tarbiat Modares University

4 Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.

5 Master's student in Food Science and Engineering, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran

10.22059/ijpps.2026.410315.1007112

Abstract

The button mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) is regarded as one of the most important protein-rich agricultural products and serves as a valuable source of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. One of the major challenges in mushroom cultivation is the occurrence of green mold, which can cause substantial economic losses. Continuous application of chemical fungicides not only contributes to environmental contamination and poses risks to human health, but also leads to the development of resistance in pathogenic strains, thereby complicating disease management. In this study, the antifungal activity of Fresh Save MR (savory oil), produced by the Danesh-Miveh Company, was evaluated against green mold of button mushroom under both laboratory and cultivation-room conditions. In addition, the effects of this compound on mushroom growth parameters, including yield, weight loss percentage, and firmness, were assessed. The results indicated that the concentration of 2000 ppm of savory oil exhibited the highest inhibitory effect on mold growth. The MIC and MFC values for this compound were determined to be 2000 ppm, while the EC₅₀ value was 1000 ppm. Moreover, bactericidal activity against Bacillus velezensis UTB96 was also observed at 2000 ppm. According to the findings, this compound did not exert any negative impact on mushroom performance. Therefore, savory oil can be considered an effective biological alternative to chemical pesticides for controlling green mold in mushroom cultivation, while also helping prevent environmental hazards and risks associated with human health.

Keywords



Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 01 February 2026
  • Receive Date: 31 January 2026
  • Revise Date:
  • Accept Date: 01 February 2026