Auricularia, commonly known as black fungus, wood ear, or tree ear, is an edible mushroom belonging to the family Auriculariaceae. It is widely cultivated and consumed in many Asian countries for its unique texture and nutritional value. The fruit body of this fungus is the part that is eaten. There are two main types: one with a smooth, dark brown surface and a translucent appearance, which is considered high quality due to its lightness and softness; the other has a hairy, gray-brown surface with a rougher texture, often harder and more brittle.
These fungi can be harvested throughout spring, summer, and autumn, and are referred to as "spring ears," "summer ears," and "autumn ears" respectively. When harvesting, it's important to pick them at the right time—when the fruit body is fully developed and the white spore powder on the underside is visible. Harvesting should be done carefully to avoid damaging the buds or leaving roots behind. It’s best to harvest on sunny mornings or after rainfall when the ears are still soft. After picking, fresh fungus should be spread out on bamboo mats or woven baskets and stored in a cool, well-ventilated area to prevent moisture buildup.
In terms of storage, auricularia should be kept at 0°C with a relative humidity of over 95%. As a gelatinous mushroom, it is prone to sticking together and forming clumps if not handled properly. Therefore, regular ventilation is essential to prevent mold growth. Due to its delicate nature, the storage and transportation of this fungus are challenging. Even under ideal conditions, it can only be preserved for 2–3 weeks. Thus, it is not suitable for long-term storage and is typically used for short-term transport and distribution.
For packaging, it is recommended to use baskets, boxes, or plastic bags to maintain freshness during transit. When it comes to quality standards, the best grade should have large, thick, and uniformly black fruit bodies, free from any curling, blockage, or impurities. The first-grade standard requires pure black color, uniform size, dryness, and light weight, with no debris, small pieces, or mold. The second grade allows for slightly smaller size, minor impurities (up to 1%), but still maintains good quality without mold or blockage. The third grade may show some discoloration, such as slight white or brownish tones, and may contain more debris, but must still be free from mold and excessive damage.
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