A new colorimetric method to quantify β-1,3-1,6-glucans in comparison with total β-1,3-glucans in edible mushrooms

► Mushroom β-1,3-1,6-glucans were determined with a new colorimetric method. ► The dye Congo red interacts with the triple helix of the glucans. ► The total- β-1,3-glucan content in mycelia and fruiting bodies was measured. ► Fruiting bodies have higher amounts of β-1,3-1,6-glucans and total-β-1,3-glucans.