Mushrooms: Safe Superfood Or Poisonous Pretenders?

Mushrooms are a type of fungus that has been consumed by humans for thousands of years. While some mushrooms are safe to eat, others are toxic and can even be deadly. Proper identification of mushrooms is crucial, as the consequences of misidentification can be severe. Some mushrooms that are edible for most people can cause allergic reactions in others, and old or improperly stored mushrooms can cause food poisoning. There are also magic mushrooms or shrooms, which contain the hallucinogenic drug psilocybin and are considered recreational drugs. While some research suggests that psilocybin mushrooms have benefits for mental health, they are mostly illegal in the US and are classified as a class A drug in the UK, similar to heroin and crack cocaine.

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Identifying safe mushrooms

One way to identify mushrooms is to learn about their families. For example, the edible members of the Agaric family have pink to brown/black gills, a white cap, and a stout stem with a skirt. However, there are toxic members of this family that look very similar. It is also helpful to learn to identify some of the easier mushrooms, such as chanterelles, which are found in some regions and are safe to gather even for amateurs. Other examples include Chicken of the Woods and Giant Puffballs.

Additionally, creating a spore print can help identify mushrooms. This involves removing the stem and placing the mushroom gills down on a piece of clear glass or paper overnight. The colour of the spore print can help narrow down the mushroom's identity. It is also recommended to always consult multiple guides and pictures, as mushrooms can look different depending on their growing conditions and age.

While some sources suggest that consuming a small amount of a mushroom to test its safety is acceptable, this is not recommended as deadly mushroom poisoning can take a week to manifest, and even a small amount can be lethal.

Safe methods of consumption

Safe methods of mushroom consumption depend on the type of mushroom and the purpose of consumption. Here are some guidelines and recommendations for safe mushroom consumption:

Foraging Wild Mushrooms

Foraging for wild mushrooms can be a rewarding experience, but it requires extreme caution. Misidentification of mushrooms can lead to severe consequences, including poisoning and, in some cases, even death. Here are some tips for safe foraging:

• Always properly identify mushrooms before consuming them. Learn about the different types of edible and poisonous mushrooms, and use reliable guides or work with an experienced mycologist to accurately identify mushroom species.
• Take note of the mushroom's characteristics, such as its shape, size, colour, gills, and stem. Compare these features with trusted guidebooks or online resources.
• Utilise spore prints to help with identification. By placing the mushroom gills down on a clear surface or paper overnight, you can obtain a spore print. The colour of the spore print can narrow down the possible mushroom species.
• Be cautious of folk methods. Myths like garlic turning black or a silver coin tarnishing when in contact with poisonous mushrooms are not reliable indicators of toxicity.
• Familiarise yourself with deadly poisonous mushrooms. Some mushrooms, such as the Amanita genus, including the death cap (A. phalloides), are frequently confused with edible mushrooms and can be highly toxic or even fatal.
• Start with novice-friendly mushrooms. For beginners, it is safer to focus on easily identifiable mushrooms with no dangerous lookalikes, such as the Giant Puffball, Beefsteak Fungus, Porcelain Fungus, and Chicken of the Woods.

Consuming Magic Mushrooms

Magic mushrooms, or psilocybin mushrooms, are known for their hallucinogenic effects and are considered a recreational drug. While some people report positive experiences, it is important to approach their consumption with caution:

• Check local laws and regulations. In many places, psilocybin mushrooms are illegal to possess or consume.
• Understand the risks. While magic mushrooms are generally considered the safest recreational drug, there is still a risk of a "bad trip," which can include anxiety, panic, and depersonalisation.
• Prepare the environment. A positive experience often depends on a comfortable setting and the presence of a "sober sitter" to provide reassurance and support.
• Be mindful of potential interactions. Magic mushrooms can interact with other substances, including prescription medications, and may have contraindications for certain health conditions.
• Start with a small dose. It is generally recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase if necessary, allowing yourself to become familiar with the effects.

Remember, when in doubt, it is always better to err on the side of caution. If you are ever unsure about the safety of a mushroom, refrain from consuming it, and if you experience any adverse effects, seek medical attention immediately.

Safe methods of storage

Storing mushrooms safely is crucial to prevent food wastage and to ensure that they are edible and safe for consumption. Here are some safe methods for storing mushrooms:

Prevent Moisture Retention

Mushrooms are prone to becoming slimy and mouldy due to moisture retention. To prevent this, avoid washing mushrooms before storing them. Instead, wrap them in paper towels or place them in a brown paper bag. The paper will absorb any excess moisture, keeping the mushrooms dry and fresh. Avoid using plastic containers or bags, as they can trap moisture and accelerate spoilage.

Refrigerate or Freeze

Mushrooms should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place, such as the refrigerator. Place the wrapped or bagged mushrooms in a bowl in the refrigerator. They will typically last between seven and fourteen days when stored this way. For longer-term storage, you can freeze mushrooms after cooking and cooling them. Dip them in a solution of water and lemon juice before cooking to improve their colour after freezing. Then, place the cooked mushrooms in a freezer bag and store them in the freezer for up to a year.

Dehydration and Air-Drying

Dehydration and air-drying are alternative methods to extend the shelf life of mushrooms. These techniques preserve the quality of the mushrooms and intensify their flavour. To dry mushrooms, use a dehydrator or simply place them in a mesh container with good airflow for about a week. Once completely dry, store them in an airtight glass jar.

Storage of Psilocybin Mushrooms

Psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as magic mushrooms, require proper storage to maintain their potency and safety. Store them in a cool, dark, dry environment, similar to how you would store regular mushrooms. Ensure the container is airtight, such as a glass jar or a vacuum-sealed plastic bag. Label the containers with the date of acquisition and preparation to keep track of their freshness. Always consume psilocybin mushrooms within the recommended shelf life for the best experience.

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Safe methods of preparation

Safe methods of mushroom preparation begin with accurate identification. It is crucial to correctly identify wild mushrooms before consuming them, as misidentification can lead to severe consequences. While most mushrooms are not toxic, some poisonous varieties can be dangerous or even fatal. To aid identification, it is recommended to consult multiple guides and pictures, as mushroom appearance can vary depending on their growing conditions. Learning about the characteristics of different mushroom families can also be helpful. Obtaining a spore print by placing the mushroom gills on clear glass or paper overnight can assist in narrowing down the type of mushroom.

For novice foragers, it is advisable to start with easily identifiable mushrooms that have no dangerous lookalikes. Some examples of safe wild mushrooms found in the UK include the Giant Puffball, Beefsteak Fungus, Porcelain Fungus, Cauliflower Fungus, Dryads Saddle, Hedgehog Fungus, Truffle (when growing on elder trees), and Chicken of the Woods (when not growing on Yew trees).

When foraging for wild mushrooms, it is essential to take photographs, collect samples, and, if possible, consult with an experienced mycologist to ensure accurate identification. It is also important to note that some mushrooms that are edible for most people may cause allergic reactions in others, and improperly stored mushrooms can lead to food poisoning.

Cooking mushrooms before consumption can improve their texture and reduce trace levels of toxic hydrazines. Various cooking methods such as frying, roasting, baking, and microwaving can be employed. Mushrooms are heat stable due to their chitin structure and do not become mushy during extended cooking unless exposed to extremely high temperatures above 380 °C (716 °F).

While psilocybin mushrooms, commonly known as "magic mushrooms" or "shrooms," are illegal in many places, they are considered the safest recreational drug according to the 2017 Global Drug Survey. However, it is crucial to distinguish between psilocybin mushrooms and poisonous varieties, as they may share similar visual characteristics. Cultivating mushrooms at home or working with a guide can enhance safety.

Safe alternatives to poisonous mushrooms

While most mushrooms are not toxic, some poisonous mushrooms can be fatal. Therefore, it is important to be able to identify mushrooms accurately before consuming them.

The Giant Puffball

The Giant Puffball is a safe alternative to poisonous mushrooms like the Death Cap and the Funeral Bell, which can be deadly. The Giant Puffball is easy to identify and quite safe to eat. It is one of the larger mushroom varieties and has a white cap.

The Hedgehog Mushroom

Also known as the bearded tooth, pompom, or Hericium erinaceus, this mushroom has a distinctive appearance that resembles the mane of a male lion or a pompom. It is often found growing on hardwood trees, particularly beech trees, in late summer and fall.

The Chicken of the Woods

This mushroom is safe to eat as long as it is not growing on a yew tree. It is important to be cautious when foraging for this variety, as consuming the wrong type of mushroom can have severe consequences.

The Maitake Mushroom

Also known as the hen of the woods, ram's head, or sheep's head, the Maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa) is another safe alternative. It grows at the base of hardwood trees like oaks.

Chanterelle Mushrooms

Chanterelles are a safe alternative to the Jack-o'-lantern mushroom, which is poisonous and can cause digestive discomfort. Chanterelles have a gold-yellowish or brilliant orange color and a unique peppery, peachy, and apricot-like flavor. They are found on the east and west coasts of the United States and can be foraged during the summer and early fall.

When identifying mushrooms, it is important to remember that appearance alone is not sufficient. Learning about the characteristics of different mushrooms, their habitats, and the color of their spore prints can help in accurate identification. Consulting multiple guides and pictures is also recommended, as mushroom appearance can vary depending on their growing conditions.

Frequently asked questions