WASHINGTON, D.C. — Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation has introduced a bipartisan resolution to designate June 1 as National Mushroom Day, highlighting the state’s dominant role in the U.S. mushroom industry.
What This Means for You
- June 1 could be formally recognized as National Mushroom Day
- The resolution highlights southeastern Pennsylvania’s role in food production and jobs
- Lawmakers are promoting continued support for a key regional agriculture industry
U.S. Sen. John Fetterman, joined by Sen. Dave McCormick and U.S. Reps. Chrissy Houlahan and Dan Meuser, introduced the measure on Thursday to recognize mushroom growers and workers across the country.
Why Pennsylvania Leads
Pennsylvania produces the majority of mushrooms in the United States, with Chester and Berks counties accounting for about 60 percent of national production.
That dominance traces back to 1885, when a Kennett Square florist developed a method for growing mushrooms in controlled indoor environments, allowing for year-round production.
Today, the industry supports farms, jobs, and local economies across southeastern Pennsylvania.
“The mushroom industry powers jobs, farms, and communities across Pennsylvania. Our commonwealth is the Mushroom Capital of the World™,” Fetterman said.
Bipartisan Support
Lawmakers from both parties said the resolution recognizes the economic and agricultural importance of the industry.
“Pennsylvania is the mushroom capital of the world, and our growers work hard every day to help feed America,” McCormick said.
Houlahan pointed to the industry’s regional impact.
“In Chester and Berks Counties, mushrooms aren’t just a crop—they’re a cornerstone of our local economy and source of great pride,” she said.
Meuser said the resolution also reflects the industry’s role in the national food supply.
“This resolution recognizes the hard work of those producers, their contributions to local communities, and the important role mushrooms play in a healthy diet,” Meuser said.
Industry Response
Industry groups said the designation would bring national attention to mushroom growers and their contributions.
Rachel Roberts, president of the American Mushroom Institute, said Pennsylvania growers have produced more than half of the nation’s mushrooms for generations, supporting both state and national agriculture.
Amy Wood, president of the Mushroom Council, said the recognition highlights the role mushrooms play in American diets, citing demand for affordable and nutritious foods.
Next Steps
The resolution must be adopted by Congress before June 1 can be formally recognized as National Mushroom Day.
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