National Mushroom Month

National Mushroom Month is dedicated to raising awareness of the amazing and diverse range of mushrooms. Supported by the US Department of Agriculture, this event highlights the importance of mushrooms in our lives and their health benefits. The more you learn about mushrooms, the more you may appreciate their nutritional value and versatility.

History

Mushrooms have been used in cooking since ancient Egypt, as shown by hieroglyphs found in tombs. At that time, mushrooms were considered a source of immortality and were available only to the wealthy elite. In 1990, a law was signed in the United States to regulate the promotion of mushrooms, support research, and provide consumer information. As part of this law, the US Mushroom Council established a month dedicated to mushrooms. President George H. W. Bush signed the law, and it came into effect in 1993.

Interesting Facts About Mushrooms

• The mushroom capital of the world is Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, where about a million pounds of mushrooms are produced every day.
• Each year, Kennett Square hosts the Mushroom Festival, featuring a parade, visits to farms, and fresh mushroom dishes.
• Mushrooms are a good source of copper, potassium, protein, fiber, zinc, and selenium. Scientists continue to research their medicinal uses.
• There are both edible and poisonous mushrooms. Only cultivated species are available in stores year-round—not wild mushrooms.
• Poisonous mushrooms can often be identified by red coloring on the stem or cap, white gills, or a ring or skirt on the stem.

How to Take Part

Expand your cookbook with new mushroom recipes—try making soup, scrambled eggs, or pizza. Share the holiday on social media using the hashtag #NationalMushroomMonth. Study the different types of mushrooms and create a chart of your favorites. However, avoid picking wild mushrooms, as it can be difficult to distinguish between edible and inedible varieties. It’s safer to buy mushrooms from a store or local farm.

When is National Mushroom Month in 2025?

National Mushroom Month is observed on September 1 each year.

Observations