With the arrival of autumn, the Health and Consumption Area of Bilbao City Council has activated its Mushroom Identification Service. This free initiative aims to address the concerns of mycologists by determining the safety for consumption of collected specimens and preventing potential poisonings.
The service is located at the Health and Consumption Area offices on the 5th floor at Calle Cristo, number 1. Operating hours will be on Mondays in October and November, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, starting October 19th. Outside these days, appointments can be requested by calling 94 420 49 24 and 94 420 49 63.
The Area recommends that the collector themselves visit the service, providing data on the habitat and environment. It is also advisable to bring several specimens of each species, whole (uncut) and unmixed.
Furthermore, Bilbao City Council reminds enthusiasts of the importance of collecting developed and healthy specimens, and to consult the service as soon as possible after collection (within two days), storing them properly outside plastic bags and in the lower part of the refrigerator.
