Ever wonder how to pick the best mushrooms and keep them fresh for longer? Whether you're a kitchen newbie or a seasoned chef, here’s a quick guide on how to shop, clean, and store your shrooms the right way!

While Buying

When shopping for mushrooms, look for these key signs of freshness:

• Plump, unblemished, and smooth shrooms are your best pick.
• They should smell clean and woodsy, not funky.
• If the veil under the caps is closed, you’re in for a delicate flavour. Open veils with exposed gills mean a richer, more intense flavour.
• Wrinkles, shrivelled patches, or dark spots? It’s time to steer clear. Mushrooms with slime are definitely stale.

(Psst - With our gourmet farm-fresh mushrooms, you don’t have to worry about picking your own... we’ve done it for you!)

While Cleaning

• Gently brush off debris with your hands or a damp towel—mushrooms soak up liquid super fast, so avoid rinsing unless necessary!
• If rinsing, do it right before cooking and very briefly.
• Tough stems? Trim them. For shiitakes, remove stems and use them later in broths for an extra umami boost.
• Portobello gills can stay on for added flavour, but feel free to remove them if you prefer a smoother texture.

While Storing

• Store mushrooms in their original packaging or in a paper bag to maintain freshness longer.
• Most shrooms should last up to a week in the refrigerator.
• Fresh mushrooms aren’t always freezer-friendly, but dried mushrooms make an excellent pantry staple!

Shop our shrooms here and follow these simple tips to enjoy the delicious versatility they bring to your dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How long do fresh mushrooms last in the fridge?

Fresh mushrooms typically last 5 to 7 days when stored correctly in the refrigerator. Keeping them in their original packaging or a paper bag allows excess moisture to escape and helps extend their shelf life.

Should I wash mushrooms before storing them?

It's best to avoid washing mushrooms until you're ready to cook them. Mushrooms absorb water easily, and excess moisture can cause them to spoil faster. Instead, brush away any dirt with a dry paper towel or soft brush.

Why do mushrooms turn slimy?

A slightly damp surface is normal, but a sticky or slimy coating usually means the mushrooms are beginning to spoil. This happens when excess moisture gets trapped during storage or as the mushrooms naturally break down over time.

Can you freeze fresh mushrooms?

Most fresh mushrooms don't freeze well because of their high water content, which can affect texture once thawed. If you'd like to freeze them, it's best to cook them first. Alternatively, dried mushrooms make an excellent pantry staple and can be stored for months.

What's the best way to store mushrooms?

Store mushrooms in the refrigerator in their original packaging or in a paper bag. Avoid airtight containers or sealed plastic bags, as trapped moisture can shorten their shelf life.

How can I tell if mushrooms have gone bad?

Fresh mushrooms should feel firm, dry, and smell pleasantly earthy. If they become slimy, develop dark spots, feel mushy, or have a sour smell, it's time to discard them.