Watch the Close Calls with CPCS video episode on Toxic Wild Mushrooms (above).
About wild mushrooms
Poisonous mushrooms typically look like most edible mushrooms and are not always brightly colored. Eating poisonous mushrooms can cause symptoms that typically develop 6 to 12 hours after eating. Death due to eating wild mushrooms is uncommon but does occur. The most serious illnesses and deaths have been linked to eating mushrooms that cause liver damage. These mushrooms include Amanita ocreata or the “destroying angel,” as well as Amanita phalloides or the "death cap." Learn how to identify and prevent exposure to wild mushrooms.
Symptoms of mushroom poisoning
- Abdominal pain
- Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Death
- Liver damage
- Vomiting
Prevent wild mushroom poisoning
The only safe mushrooms are those purchased at established food markets.
- Buy cultivated mushrooms at a reputable food market.
- Do not eat wild mushrooms that friends or family members picked.
Pictured is a pair of death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides).
Wild mushroom poisonings are increasing in California
Avoid picking, cooking, or eating wild mushrooms — many can be deadly. Only eat mushrooms from trusted grocery stores or markets.
If someone has eaten a wild mushroom and feels sick (severe vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain), call 911 immediately for emergency medical help, then call the Poison Hotline for professional guidance at 1-800-222-1222.
- Find more information, resources and materials on wild mushroom poisonings. This page links to an English webpage, if you would like to view it in your preferred language, you can set your browser to that language.