A Bread Polypore intended for eating should be a younger specimen, as older ones develop a bitter taste and become unappetizing. It is also worth noting that Bread Polypore can have a mild laxative effect on some people.
Planting site
Bread Polypore is most commonly found in the southern part of Norrland and in central Sweden, but it occurs throughout the country. It thrives in coniferous forests, preferably in mossy areas.
Seasonal
Usually grows from August-October but has its peak in September.
How do I recognize a bread tick?
Bread Polypore rarely grows alone, usually forming a single large cluster of overlapping mushrooms. They can become quite large, growing together in one big mass. The top is light bread-colored, while the underside is covered with a fine, almost fuzzy layer that can resemble tubes in older specimens. Learn the distinctive smell of Bread Polypore, as it is very memorable. If you notice a slightly sweet scent that matches the other characteristics, you have most likely found a Bread Polypore.
Special instructions for picking bread polypore
Bread Polypore should be firm and clean. It is important to trim the base thoroughly and brush off any dirt. Cut carefully around the stem, where most of the dirt collects, and remove debris from crevices. This mushroom usually grows in a single large cluster and therefore tends to gather quite a bit of debris. Size doesn’t matter to us, as long as it is firm and clean. If there is a lot of dirt in the joints, you can cut it away, since this mushroom will be chopped, making cleanliness more important than keeping it whole.
Bread polypore & Lookalike mushrooms
The most common look-alike is Sheep Polypore, which is also collected but under its own criteria. The easiest way to tell them apart is that Bread Polypore can appear slightly soft or fuzzy underneath, whereas Sheep Polypore is completely smooth and chalky white.
It can also be mistaken for Hedgehog Mushroom, which is also collected under its own criteria. You can read more under Pale Hedgehog Mushroom.
What to look out for when walking in the forest
Just like in tall grass, ticks thrive in the forest. It’s a good idea to check your clothes regularly and take a good look if you feel any crawling. Tick bites are not necessarily dangerous, but you are encouraged to keep an eye on tick bites so that you do not get symptoms of, for example, Lyme disease or TBE.
