How to avoid mushroom poisoning?

The mushroom season attracts nature lovers to forests and meadows, but it is also associated with a certain risk – mushroom poisoning.

To enjoy picking and eating mushrooms, you should be careful and follow some important rules. In this article, we will discuss how to avoid mushroom poisoning and dispel popular myths on this subject.

Avoid ambushes – remember

The first and most important rule is the certainty of mushroom identification. Do not collect mushrooms that you cannot clearly identify. Even a small mistake can result in poisoning. Use appropriate mushroom picking guides, learn to recognize species and consult with experienced mushroom pickers.

Another important aspect is collecting mushrooms in pollution-free places. Avoid collecting mushrooms near roads, industrial plants or contaminated areas. Mushrooms easily absorb chemicals from the environment, which can lead to poisoning.

We debunk myths

Many people believe the myth that you need to peel mushrooms to avoid poisoning. This is a mistake! Most mushrooms can be eaten whole, and peeling may introduce unnecessary risk of contact with poisonous substances.

Another myth is that cooking always neutralizes the poisons in mushrooms. Unfortunately, this is not true. Some poisons are very resistant to high temperatures, so cooking thoroughly for an appropriate period of time is important, but this does not always guarantee complete removal of the toxins.

Before the doctor arrives

If you suspect mushroom poisoning, do not wait for symptoms – immediately go to the nearest hospital or call an ambulance. Symptoms of mushroom poisoning can appear even after several hours, and a delay in getting help can be fatal.

It is also worth keeping the packaging or a sample of the mushrooms you collect, which will make it easier for doctors to diagnose and determine the type of poison. The sooner treatment is undertaken, the greater the chance of full recovery.

The most dangerous mushroom toxins

There are many types of poisonous mushrooms, but some are particularly dangerous. The most dangerous poisonous mushrooms include:

Amanita phalloides (phallus) – contains a highly poisonous substance – α-amanitin, which damages the liver and kidneys.

Gyromitra esculenta (crested chanterelle) – contains gyromithrin, which is poisonous even in small amounts and may damage internal organs.

Cortinarius orellanus (red violet) – this mushroom contains orellanin, which is toxic to the kidneys and may lead to kidney failure.

Your suggestions

It is important to be careful and responsible when picking and eating mushrooms. If you have any suggestions or experiences on this topic, please share them with others in the comments. The knowledge and experience of other mushroom pickers can help you avoid the danger of mushroom poisoning.

Recommended articles

To learn more about picking and eating mushrooms safely, we recommend reading the following articles:

• Edible mushrooms: how to recognize them?
• Safe methods of storing mushrooms
• Mushroom poisoning: symptoms and first aid

Remember that mushroom poisoning can be very dangerous, but with proper knowledge and caution, you can avoid this risk and enjoy the taste of mushrooms in complete safety.