ABSTRACT
Macrofungi or higher fungi can be defined as fungi that form epigeal/hypogeal, large spore-bearing structures, called sporocarps. To survive in their natural environment, macrofungi are constrained to produce bioactive secondary metabolites, e.g., such with antimicrobial or cytostatic activities. More than 30 species of medicinal mushrooms are currently identified as sources for biologically active metabolites. Macrofungi are also a source of pure bioactive compounds, which are licenced as drugs. Fresh and preserved edible macrofungi are components of human foods since thousands of years. They are rich in proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins and vitamin precursors and minerals, poor in fats with a high proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids and purins. Most edible mushrooms possess a pleasant taste and flavour.
