Foraging for wild mushrooms is an exciting way to explore nature and enjoy its seasonal bounty, but it comes with risks that can’t be ignored.
With toxic lookalikes lurking among edible varieties, experts urge foragers to prioritise safety over spontaneity.
Mushroom expert Elliot Webb from Urban Farm-It and author of Growing Mushrooms at Home: The Complete Guide to Knowing, Growing and Loving Fungi, shares his thoughts on the top tips to forage confidently and avoid the dangers of mushroom poisoning.
Foraging Mushrooms – Correct identification:
“The key to safe foraging is accurate identification. Some of the deadliest mushrooms, like the Death Cap, can easily be mistaken for harmless varieties. I always recommend carrying a trusted field guide or even using apps to cross-reference findings, but even then, exercise caution. A single error can have devastating consequences, so don’t pick anything you can’t identify with absolute certainty.”
Foraging Mushrooms – Avoid suspicious mushrooms:
“Toxic mushrooms often look perfectly edible, and some even mimic popular species like chanterelles or porcini. If a mushroom has any unusual characteristics – such as a strange colour, odour, or texture – it’s better to leave it where you found it. Trust your instincts and remember that a missed opportunity is far safer than a trip to the hospital.”
Foraging Mushrooms – Do not pick in polluted areas
“Mushrooms are nature’s recyclers, absorbing nutrients from their surroundings. Unfortunately, this also means they take in toxins like heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants. Avoid areas near industrial zones, busy roads, or agricultural land where there might be chemical runoff. Stick to pristine environments for the best – and safest – finds.”
Foraging Mushrooms – Ignore popular myths:
“Over the years, I’ve heard many myths about mushrooms that are simply untrue. For instance, people often believe that mushrooms are safe if animals eat them or that changing colour during cooking indicates toxicity. These myths can lead to serious danger. The only reliable method is proper identification based on trusted resources or expert guidance.”
Foraging Mushrooms – Proper storage:
“Once you’ve safely foraged your mushrooms, storing them correctly is essential to maintain their quality. Mushrooms should be kept in breathable containers like wicker baskets or paper bags to prevent excess moisture, which can encourage bacteria or mould. Avoid plastic bags at all costs – they trap moisture and can make even safe mushrooms spoil quickly.”
Foraging Mushrooms – General advice on poisoning risks:
“Even seasoned foragers can make mistakes, so it’s important to act quickly if poisoning is suspected. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain can develop hours after ingestion. In such cases, seek immediate medical attention and provide as much detail as possible about the mushrooms you consumed – it can make all the difference.”
