This research examined how wild edible mushrooms accumulate different chemical elements when growing in city versus forest environments. The study analyzed 46 different elements in various mushroom species to understand if urban pollution affects their safety for consumption. The findings have several important implications for everyday life: • While mushrooms from both urban and forest areas were generally safe in terms of toxic metal content, excessive consumption could pose health risks • Location (city vs forest) was less important for mushroom safety than previously thought • Different mushroom species accumulate elements differently, regardless of where they grow • People should be cautious about consuming large amounts of wild mushrooms, even from seemingly pristine forest areas • Regular monitoring of wild mushroom chemical composition is important for food safety