National Mushroom Month

National Mushroom Month is observed every September to celebrate the flavor, versatility, and nutritional value of mushrooms. The month highlights cultivated mushrooms used in everyday cooking and encourages people to learn more about how mushrooms are grown, prepared, and enjoyed.

History of National Mushroom Month

National Mushroom Month is connected with the Mushroom Promotion, Research and Consumer Information Act of 1990. The act was created to support mushroom promotion, research, and consumer education in the United States. In 1993, the Mushroom Council was established to carry out this work under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service.

Mushrooms have been used as food for centuries in many cultures. Today, they are valued for their earthy flavor, meaty texture, and flexibility in cooking. They can be used in soups, salads, sauces, stir-fries, pasta dishes, omelets, pizzas, sandwiches, and many plant-forward meals.

Interesting Facts About National Mushroom Month

• September is recognized as National Mushroom Month in the United States.
• The Mushroom Council supports mushroom research, promotion, and consumer education.
• Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, is often called the Mushroom Capital of the World because of its long history of mushroom production.
• Mushrooms are fungi, not vegetables, although they are often used like vegetables in cooking.
• Common cultivated mushrooms include white button, cremini, portobello, shiitake, oyster, maitake, and enoki mushrooms.
• Wild mushrooms should never be eaten unless they have been identified by a qualified expert, because some poisonous species can look similar to edible ones.

How to Take Part in National Mushroom Month

National Mushroom Month is a good time to try new mushroom recipes. You can make mushroom soup, pasta, pizza, risotto, omelets, tacos, grilled portobello burgers, or a simple mushroom side dish with herbs and garlic.

You can also visit a local farm, farmers market, restaurant, or food festival that features mushrooms. If you enjoy learning about food, read about mushroom cultivation, compare different varieties, or share a favorite recipe using the hashtag #NationalMushroomMonth. For safety, buy mushrooms from trusted stores, farms, or markets instead of picking wild mushrooms on your own.

When Is National Mushroom Month in 2026?

National Mushroom Month is observed annually throughout September, beginning on September 1.

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