IS THAT MUSHROOM SAFE?

IS THAT MUSHROOM SAFE?

Sulfur Shelf or Chicken of the Woods  (Edible -Choice)

The question and concern from family and friends when we tell them we forage for mushrooms (and other food) is sometimes overwhelming.  Though we appreciate the concern, we sometimes wonder why.  It is probably because of the lore behind mushrooms killing the unsuspecting person, or portrayal by the film industry with the assassin posing as a chef feeding his target a poisoned mushroom soup.  There is also the occasional report of a child (or drunken adult)  unsuspectingly eating mushrooms from the yard and ending up in the emergency room.  While all of these situations are plausible and can happen, they are all easily avoidable.

Though it is true that toxic and even deadly mushrooms are quite common, some basic safety tips will avoid poisoning for you or your family.  We are specifically talking about mushroom foraging, but the same rules apply for plant foraging.  

#1:  Do not eat anything if you are not 100% sure what it is.  We continually say this as does every person and book that teaches foraging.  It is the #1 most important rule….positive identification.  There are numerous field guides, identification guides and internet sites available.  A google search of foraging clubs and classes in your area can also be helpful to attend or join.  WHEN IN DOUBT THROW IT OUT!   

Destroying Angel (toxic / deadly)

 #2:  Know what NOT to eat!  Knowing what is toxic is probably more important than knowing what is edible.  If we think back to childhood, this was a basic premise that are parents instilled.  Stay away from things you know can harm you.  In the case of mushrooms, there are really only a few species that are truly deadly and a handful of others that will make you sick.  Learn how to identify these first.

#3:  Nearly all wild mushrooms need some processing before being consumed.  Most should be cooked whether by frying, boiling, baking or grilling.  Many can be dehydrated or pickled and a few can be frozen to be later used in your favorite dish.  Many field guides and internet sites have recommendations for preparation.    

#4:  Try only a small sample or taste the first time you try a new type of mushroom (or foraged food).  Wait at least 24 hours before consuming more (some guides recommend waiting 48 hours).  Even if you are sure about the mushroom (or any foraged food) you have, some people can adversely react.  Some wild mushrooms may not affect one person, but make the next person ill.  All people are not built the same in regards to what they can and cannot eat. 

If a person follows these basic rules, a safe and happy foraging experience will be the outcome.   Our ancestors followed these rules and most lived long happy lives.  There is a valid argument as to whether eating these "back to nature foods, could actually mitigate many of the chronic illnesses we have in the modern world.  Anecdotally, we have noticed a significant reduction in some of our minor chronic health issues over the past few years including allergies and gastro-intestinal problems.  This increase in health has coincided directly with our increase in dietary variability including wild and foraged foods.  We feel better physically and feel better socially by not contributing to the over-processed food industry.