Which Australian Mushrooms are Safe to Eat?
Mushrooms are FUNGI and not a plant, therefore they grow in a very unique way. It is estimated that we know only 5% of the planet's 2.2 - 3.8 million fungal species. Learn why mushrooms that are commercially grown in Australia, and sold to reputable retailers are safe to eat, while some species found growing in the wild, could be poisonous.
AMGA does not encourage wild mushroom foraging.
OFFICIAL STATEMENT - Leongatha Wild Mushroom Poisoning
- The Australian Mushroom Growers Association – and the entire industry – offers our deepest condolences to the families of those impacted by the tragedy in Leongatha, Victoria.
- The AMGA echoes the advice from the Victorian Department of Health, which warns people against picking and consuming wild mushrooms.
- We strongly urge people to only consume mushrooms sold at a trusted retailer, like a supermarket, green-grocer or quality farmers market. They are safe, healthy and quality assured through the rigorous supplier standards of mushrooms in Australian supermarkets.
- Australian mushroom growers adhere to world-leading food safety standards and work with major retailers to ensure traceability through the supply chain.
- Button, cup, BBQ flat mushrooms, as well as swiss browns and portobello are all of the 'Agaricus bisporus' species. They grow commercially in a highly controlled environment, on bed of compost, which is specific for that species.
- 'Death caps' are the 'Amanita phalloides' species, which are symbiotic, which means they must grow with a host tree. It is impossible to grow Amanita phalloides on a commercial Agaricus mushroom farm.
- Store bought mushrooms are safe – this is the bottom line.
