With the arrival of the first rains and the mushroom season, the Sassari Local Health Authority is reactivating its Mycological Inspectorate, a free service to protect public health and prevent poisoning caused by eating wild mushrooms.
The office carries out checks and certifies the edibility of fresh mushrooms collected by citizens for personal consumption, as well as those intended for sale and catering.
"Anyone who consumes mushrooms they have collected themselves or received as gifts is encouraged to contact the Inspectorate, where mycologists will carry out free inspections and also provide advice on preparation and consumption," explains Extraordinary Commissioner Paolo Tauro.
Meanwhile, experts recommend always consuming cooked mushrooms, in moderation, and without repeating meals. Bring the entire harvest for inspection: discarded specimens may contain toxic species. Harvest whole mushrooms, avoiding cutting them at the base, and transport them in rigid, well-ventilated containers, never in plastic bags. Health certification is required by law for mushrooms intended for sale and consumption: retailers, restaurateurs, and agritourism businesses are therefore encouraged to request it, free of charge.
Clinics and opening hours . Sassari, Building U, Rizzeddu (Mon, Wed, Fri 12-1:30 p.m.); contact: 0792062889 – 348/5455906. Ozieri, San Nicola (Mon 8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.); contact: 079785300/09 – 347/3779432. Alghero, Via Sanzio 1 (Mon 8:30 a.m.-11:00 a.m.); contact: 0799955686 - 3485470250.
