Header

Main Content

Article

Wild Mushrooms

Application for Wild Mushroom Identifier         

Wild Mushroom Identifier Application Form
Policy to Recognize a Mushroom Identification Expert

Mushroom Identification Experts
Contact the Food Protection Division at 317-234-8569 to verify the status a Mushroom Identifier in Indiana. Listed below are letters that Mushroom Identification Experts gave permission to post.

Mushroom Identification Expert Approval Letters

Regulations on Wild Mushroom Sales

410 IAC 7-24-164 (a) Wild Mushrooms

Sec. 164. (a) Except as specified in subsection (b), mushroom species picked in the wild shall be
obtained from sources where each mushroom is individually inspected and found to be safe by a
mushroom identification expert.
     (b) This section does not apply to the following:
           (1) Cultivated wild mushroom species that are grown, harvested, and processed in an operation
                that is regulated by the food regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the operation.
           (2) Wild mushroom species if they are in a packaged form and are the product of a food processing
                plant that is regulated by the food regulatory agency that has jurisdiction over the plant.
    (c) For purposes of this section, a violation of subsection (a) or (b) is a critical item. (Indiana State 
Department of Health; 410 IAC 7-24-164; filed Oct 13, 2004, 12:30 p.m.:  28 IR 851; readopted filed Jul 15,
2010, 12:12 p.m.:  20100728-IR-410100261RFA; readopted filed Nov 10,2016, 8:45 a.m.:  20161207-IR-
410160371RFA)

Tips for the Wild Mushroom Buyer

  • Buy wild-picked mushrooms from an individual who can demonstrate their standing as an approved
    mushroom identification expert or if purchased from a vendor ask for proof that the mushrooms have been inspected and found to be safe by an approved mushroom identification expert.
    Any questions call 317-234-8569.

Tips for the Wild Mushroom Consumer

  • Mushroom poisoning may result in illness or death.  Even safe mushrooms can cause allergies reactions in some people.
  • It is always best to eat a moderate amount of wild mushrooms and to avoid eating them raw because they are hard to digest.  Eat only firm, fresh mushrooms.

Notify your doctor immediately if you suspect mushroom poisoning of any kind.
Poison Help: 1-800-222-1222

References

Bad Bug Book