MONTEREY, CALIF. — At the Organic Produce Summit July 10-11, Highline Mushrooms shared that in the month of June, organic mushrooms out-performed the entire organic produce category with a 12% increase in volume sales in the United States, according to the US Mushroom Council.

Highline Mushrooms also said organics accounted for 11% of total mushroom sales in the last year with more than $164 in sales.

“Many perceive organics, including mushrooms, to be more nutritious and environmentally friendly due to sustainable growing initiatives and the lack of pesticides,” said Kelly Hale, VP of sales, marketing & distribution. “Organics continue to be more and more important to consumers who want to know the story of how their food is grown and where it comes from. We are seeing the impact of consumers seeking organic mushrooms in the US Mushroom Council’s data that shows a 4.7% increase in total dollar growth and 12% volume growth in the last four-week period.”

Highline Mushrooms said its mushrooms have been certified organic since 2007 and that the company’s advanced growing methods and controlled growing environments continue to produce high-quality mushrooms full of flavor.

“Now is a great time to promote organics at retail as we lead into long summer weekends and outdoor grilling season,” Hale said. “We want consumers to pick up organic mushrooms at every trip to the grocery store as they scoop up other nostalgic summer favorites like corn and watermelon. With over 89% of consumers willing to pay more for organics, it ultimately results in a bigger ring at retail.”