This study aimed to assess the element content of Porcini mushrooms collected from broadleaf Mediterranean forests (NW Italy) and underlying soil layers, and to elucidate the chemical connection between the mushrooms and their geographic site of origin. Comparing the elements in mushrooms with those in soil samples, we observed that the concentration of some microelements detected in mushrooms had similar distribution as that measured in both the soil layers assessed, especially with surface soil. Statistical analyses showed that the microelement pattern in mushrooms reflects the soil site of origin. Moreover, by comparing our results with other studies, we observed that the soil where Porcini grow is characterized by a high concentration of zinc. Some toxic elements were also detected in mushroom samples. Analysis of elements in mushrooms and soil layers can be used for quality assurance of natural products and help distinguish them from uncertified and unknown-origin products.
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