Brescia Mycological Centers Promote Free Mushroom Inspections and Safety

There are five mycological centers in the province of Brescia where collected mushrooms can be examined free of charge. Specifically: Salò, viale Landi 5, tel. 365/296674; Vestone, via Reverberi 11, tel. 365/296674; Brescia, Ortomercato, via Orzinuovi 82, tel. 030/3541080; Montichiari, via Trieste 79, tel. 030/9962467; Leno, piazza Donatori del Sangue 1, tel. 030/9037402. With the arrival of the season when mushroom collectors, including amateurs, increase, reports highlight a rise in intoxications and serious poisonings. Therefore, caution with mushrooms is crucial, and expert inspection is vital.

Prevention and official inspections

According to data provided by the prevention unit of the regional Health Department, from 1996 to 2000 nearly 200 people were intoxicated, with 800 hospitalizations and about ten deaths. Health Minister Carlo Borsani, who organized a conference with experts and sector operators, reminds that in every ASL Lombarda there are one or more mushroom inspectorate offices with specialized professionals. The minister encourages citizens to contact these centers before consuming collected mushrooms.

The control and advice offered by the 65 centers across the territory are completely free. At each ASL you can obtain their addresses, phone numbers, and opening hours. Experts perform two functions: the first is identifying edible mushrooms, and the second involves providing precautions to prevent episodes of intoxication.

Inspections and educational materials

Every year in Lombardy, 500 tons of mushrooms intended for the commercial circuit are inspected. A publication from the regional Health Department with information for safely consuming mushrooms will soon be distributed to mycological centers. The manual includes over 200 color photographic reproductions of edible and poisonous mushrooms and provides guidance both for operators and consumers.