Mushrooms taste delicious and are used in various cuisines around the world. They are juicy, juicy and often referred to as ‘forest meat’. Adding to their credibility is their rich nutrient profile, which includes protein, fiber, antioxidants and essential nutrients like calcium, iron, folate and vitamin C. However, despite all the goodness, it is important to exercise caution when selecting mushrooms for consumption, as some can be toxic to health. So, let’s learn how to differentiate between poisonous and non-poisonous mushrooms before including them in your pantry. read on.
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Understanding Mushrooms: Even ‘Edible’ Mushrooms Require Careful Handling
Mushrooms can be broadly classified into two sections: edible mushrooms and inedible mushrooms, or inedible fungi. Although you can easily avoid inedible varieties altogether, problems arise when edible varieties cause adverse reactions. According to a report from Michigan State University, “Even ‘edible’ mushrooms must be handled properly to prevent disease.” The reason is simple: each person’s body can react differently to mushrooms. For example, you can eat a bowlful of mushrooms ten times and be fine, but on the eleventh time, you may fall seriously ill due to the toxins.
Why do edible mushrooms become poisonous?
A study published in the SAGE journal showed that the main reason edible mushrooms become poisonous is related to improper harvesting and processing. After mycological analysis of the conditions of mushroom collection, transportation and storage, it was found that “the largest percentage of poisoning was associated with long-term storage of mushroom dishes, collecting them and storing them in plastic bags and long-term storage. ” Mushrooms.” Therefore, it is important to handle mushrooms properly to ensure healthy consumption.
Also read: Do you like mushroom? Try these 5 unique recipes at home
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What are the major side effects of mushroom poisoning?
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning are related to the toxins entering the body. It mainly affects the gut, slowing metabolism and other bodily functions. It can also lead to the growth of harmful bacteria in the intestine, causing diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, dizziness, and in some cases, severe food poisoning. For some people, it can even become life threatening.
How to safely identify and eat mushrooms:
1. Get quality from reliable sources:
While mushrooms are easily available in the market, it is advised to purchase them only from reliable sources that follow strict safety measures during handling.
2. Know the Source of Mushrooms:
If you pick mushrooms yourself, be sure to find out which tree they grow on. The type and quality of the tree can directly affect the chemical composition of the mushroom, determining whether it is poisonous or non-poisonous.
3. Avoid long term storage:
Once purchased, do not store mushrooms in your pantry for long. Follow storage guidelines and use them before the expiration date.
4. Clean the mushrooms thoroughly:
It is essential to clean mushrooms properly to make them safe for consumption. In addition to rinsing in running water, we recommend rubbing each mushroom with a little salt to remove dirt and toxins.
5. Cook well:
Never consume mushrooms raw. Cooking them thoroughly helps kill germs and viruses, making them safe for consumption.
Now that you know how to choose the right types of mushrooms, get some for yourself and prepare a delicious dish for dinner. Here are some mushroom recipe options for you to try.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
