Are Truffles Good for You?

Truffles are a great source of antioxidants, compounds that help fight free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to your cells. Studies show that antioxidants are important to many aspects of your health and may even be linked to a lower risk of chronic conditions, such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes ( 2 ).

What is so special about truffles?

Truffles are irresistible because their aroma is composed of chemicals that mimic mammalian reproductive pheromones. ... There are lots of species, but the most valuable ones are powerfully flavorful: the Tuber magnatum pico, the Italian white truffle, and the Tuber melanosporum, the Périgord truffle.

Are truffles harmful?

Can truffles be poisonous? No truffles are known to be poisonous to humans. However, many poisonous Amanita and Cortinarius mushrooms start out as belowground “eggs” that resemble truffles at a glance but can be distinguished from truffles by their spongy or cartilaginous feel.

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.