Michael Davis
North Carolina is home to a wide variety of wild mushrooms, with the state's Piedmont region boasting a particularly long wild mushroom hunting season. Chanterelles, chicken of the wood, and morels are among the most commonly foraged edible mushrooms in the state, while poisonous varieties also abound. The state has strict regulations for the identification and serving of wild mushrooms in food establishments, requiring verification by approved mushroom experts. With its diverse landscapes, from the mountains of Western North Carolina to the Piedmont region, the state offers a rich ground for mushroom enthusiasts and foragers alike.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Variety of wild mushrooms | Chanterelles, Chicken of the Wood, Morel, Chaga |
| Edible wild mushrooms | Chanterelles, Chicken of the Wood, Morel |
| Poisonous wild mushrooms | Amanita species, any mushroom with red on it |
| Medicinal wild mushrooms | Chaga, Morel |
| Wild mushroom foraging regulations | Mushrooms must be individually inspected and found safe by an approved mushroom identification expert |
| Wild mushroom foraging resources | North Carolina Mushroom Group on Facebook, Piedmont Mycological Society Facebook group, Triangle-area Meetup group, Asheville Wild Mushroom Club |
| Wild mushroom identification resources | Rogers Mushrooms App, National Audubon Society Field Guide to Mushrooms, Mushrooms of the Southeast |
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What You'll Learn
Wild mushroom foraging in North Carolina
However, it is important to exercise caution when foraging for wild mushrooms, as some species are poisonous and can cause gastric distress or even death. It is recommended to learn about edible mushrooms with seasoned guides and teachers or to use a field guide to help identify safe mushrooms. One such guide is the National Audubon Society Field Guide to Mushrooms, which is comprehensive yet small enough to carry around outdoors. Additionally, there are online resources such as the Rogers Mushrooms App, which features over 1,600 species and 2,600 high-resolution photos to aid in mushroom identification.
For those interested in foraging for wild mushrooms in North Carolina, there are several groups and clubs that can provide support and community, such as the North Carolina Mushroom Group and the Piedmont Mycological Society on Facebook, as well as the Asheville Wild Mushroom Club. These groups can help connect individuals with local mushroom hunters and provide advice on where to find specific types of mushrooms.
It is important to note that North Carolina has specific regulations in place for wild-foraged mushrooms intended for food service establishments. The state's Food Code requires that each mushroom be individually inspected and found safe by an approved mushroom identification expert. Documentation of the forager's qualifications and training is also necessary, and a "North Carolina Wild Mushroom Verification Form" must be completed and signed by both the forager and the person in charge of the food establishment. These regulations help ensure the safe and proper handling of wild mushrooms in the state.
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Identifying wild mushrooms
North Carolina is home to a variety of wild mushrooms, with the state's long mushroom hunting season attracting foragers from across the country. While some species are safe to eat, others are potentially toxic, so it is important to be able to identify them correctly. Here are some tips for identifying wild mushrooms in North Carolina:
Join local groups: The North Carolina Mushroom Group and Piedmont Mycological Society on Facebook have members from across the state who can provide advice and share their knowledge of local mushroom hunting spots. The Asheville Wild Mushroom Club is another great resource for connecting with experienced foragers.
Look for distinct characteristics: Mushrooms have unique features that can help with identification. For example, chanterelles, which are commonly found in North Carolina, have false gills that are veined, forked, and decurrent, running down the stem of the mushroom. They also have bright coloration, ranging from yellow-orange to peachy-orange and vermillion red.
Know the habitat: Different mushroom species thrive in specific environments. Chanterelles, for instance, can be found in oak groves with wild grape and running cedar in the undergrowth. Knowing the preferred habitats of edible mushrooms can increase your chances of finding them.
Verify with field guides: Reputable field guides, such as those published by the U.S. Forest Service, can provide detailed information on the characteristics of various mushroom species. Cross-referencing your findings with trusted sources is essential to accurate identification.
Consult experts: North Carolina's Food Protection Branch has strict regulations for wild mushrooms entering the food supply. "Approved mushroom identification experts" are responsible for inspecting wild mushrooms and ensuring their safety. Their expertise can be invaluable in helping you distinguish between edible and toxic varieties.
Remember, when it comes to consuming wild mushrooms, it is crucial to be absolutely certain of their identity. Do not eat any mushroom unless you are completely sure of what it is, and always seek expert advice if you are unsure.
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Safety regulations for wild mushrooms in restaurants
North Carolina is known for its wild mushrooms, with the state's Food Protection Branch forming a committee in 2016 to research the best practices for wild mushroom regulation. The state has strict guidelines in place to ensure that only safe and approved wild mushroom species are served in restaurants.
According to the North Carolina Food Code Manual Section 3-201.16, wild mushrooms served in restaurants must be individually inspected and found safe by an "approved mushroom identification expert." The same section also outlines exemptions, including cultivated wild mushroom species that are grown, harvested, and processed under the supervision of a food regulatory agency, as well as packaged wild mushroom species that are products of a regulated food processing plant.
To ensure the safety of diners, the state mandates that food establishments maintain detailed records. The North Carolina Wild Mushroom Verification Form must be completed and signed by the wild mushroom forager and the person in charge of the permitted food establishment. This form includes information such as the identification of the mushroom species by scientific and common name, the qualifications and training of the forager, and the forager's contact details. The form must be retained by the food establishment for at least 90 days from the date of sale. Additionally, the "North Carolina Wild Mushroom Verification/Sale Tag" must accompany the container in which the wild mushrooms are received.
Specific mushroom species are permitted for use in North Carolina restaurants, including various species of Chanterelles, Chicken of the Wood, and Morels. To prove their credentials, wild mushroom foragers must provide documented proof of their qualifications and successful completion of wild mushroom identification training. This documentation must be in accordance with CFP guidance document criteria and may include a signed letter or certificate specifying the species they are qualified to identify.
While the specific regulations vary across states, North Carolina's comprehensive approach to wild mushroom safety in restaurants helps to ensure that diners can confidently enjoy the state's abundant wild mushroom offerings.
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Recommended resources for identifying wild mushrooms
North Carolina is home to a variety of wild mushrooms, with the state's landscape being particularly dominated by chanterelles. However, it is important to exercise caution when foraging for wild mushrooms, as consuming the wrong variety can be harmful to your health. Here are some recommended resources for identifying wild mushrooms in North Carolina:
- Field guides: Carrying a field guide to common mushrooms in the region can be extremely helpful when identifying wild mushrooms. Look for guides that provide detailed descriptions, photographs, and information on habitat and distribution. One such guide is the "Field Guide to Common Macrofungi in Eastern Forests," which can be found online.
- Online resources: Websites and blogs can offer a wealth of information on mushroom identification. For example, the blog "Mushroom Anna" provides detailed accounts of wild mushroom varieties in North Carolina, including chanterelles, morels, and Chicken of the Wood. It also offers advice on foraging locations and techniques.
- Facebook groups: Social media platforms like Facebook can connect you with local mushroom enthusiasts and experts. Groups such as the "North Carolina Mushroom Group" and the "Piedmont Mycological Society" can provide a forum for asking questions, sharing findings, and learning from experienced foragers in your area.
- Local clubs and societies: Joining a local mushroom club or society can offer in-person guidance and support. For instance, the Asheville Wild Mushroom Club, mentioned in the Mushroom Anna blog, provides an opportunity to connect with fellow foragers and learn from their experiences. Such clubs often organise identification workshops, guided walks, and other educational events.
- Training courses: Consider enrolling in a wild mushroom identification training course. These courses are often led by mycology experts and can provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to confidently identify a wide range of mushroom species. Upon completion, you may receive a certificate recognising your qualification as an "approved mushroom identification expert," which is a requirement for foraging in North Carolina.
- Government resources: The North Carolina government provides extensive guidance on wild mushroom foraging and safety. Their website offers information on approved mushroom species, verification procedures, and the necessary qualifications for foragers. Referring to these official resources can help ensure that you are complying with local regulations and staying safe while foraging.
Remember, it is crucial to positively identify a mushroom before consuming it. Always seek expert advice and follow local guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable foraging experience.
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Medicinal and edible wild mushrooms
North Carolina is known for its abundant wild mushrooms, with a long mushroom-hunting season that starts in April and can last until December or even beyond. The state's diverse landscapes, including forests, fields, and mountains, provide the perfect environment for a wide variety of mushroom species to thrive.
One of the most popular edible wild mushrooms in North Carolina is the chanterelle (Cantharellus spp.). Chanterelles are easily identifiable by their bright yellow-orange to peachy-orange or even vermillion-red coloration and their false gills, which are veined, forked, and decurrent. They are commonly found in oak groves with wild grape and running cedar in the undergrowth. Chanterelles have a long history of being foraged and consumed in North Carolina, and they are considered safe to eat.
Another sought-after edible mushroom in the state is the greening goat's foot (Albatrellus ellisii), also known as Ellis' polypore. This mushroom has a unique appearance, covered in little wiry fur and staining pickle-green. While some find it gross, others appreciate its taste. The hawk's wing (Sarcodon imbricatus) is another distinctive wild edible mushroom in North Carolina, known for its meaty-molasses flavor, although some may find it bitter.
For those interested in the medicinal properties of wild mushrooms, North Carolina offers a variety of options. The Lion's Mane mushroom, known for its clump of spines resembling a lion's mane, is edible and provides a range of health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved cognitive and heart health. The Maitake mushroom, also known as Hen of the Woods, is used medicinally to treat cholesterol, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, in addition to its culinary uses. It is identified by its brown tones with a lighter base and "leafy" appearance.
While foraging for wild mushrooms in North Carolina can be exciting, it is essential to exercise extreme caution. Some mushroom species have dangerous look-alikes, so proper identification is crucial. The state has strict regulations in place regarding the use of wild mushrooms in food establishments, requiring verification forms, expert identification, and documentation of the forager's qualifications and training. It is always recommended to consult with knowledgeable experts, such as herbalists, mycologists, or experienced foragers, before consuming any wild mushrooms.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are many wild mushrooms in North Carolina.
Wild mushrooms can be found in the mountains of Western North Carolina, as well as in the Piedmont region, including Raleigh.
Common types of wild mushrooms in North Carolina include chanterelles, chicken of the wood, and morels. Other types of mushrooms found in the state include Chaga and Reishi.
Yes, there are poisonous wild mushrooms in North Carolina. It is important to properly identify wild mushrooms before consuming them, as some can be toxic and cause gastric distress or even death.
It is recommended to learn about wild mushrooms with seasoned guides, teachers, or experts. There are also field guides, books, and mobile applications available to help with mushroom identification, such as the National Audubon Society Field Guide to Mushrooms and the Rogers Mushrooms App.
