The Mallorca mushroom is deadly but can be mistaken for edible look-a-like the Chanterelle.
Wild mushrooms are everywhere and most are perfectly fine to eat but there are a few exceptions, however there’s no easy way to tell what’s poisonous and what’s safe.
Mushroom expert, Marilyn Shaw, explained determining safety can’t just be based on appearance since many mushrooms will look very similar to each other but some are poisonous while others are perfectly fine.
Shaw added another interesting fact is that northern California has two of the most deadly species; Amanita phalloides, the death cap and Amanita ocreata, the destroying angel. They grow primarily with oak trees and other hardwoods, including fruit trees. These mushrooms and their host trees cannot exist without each other, and actually exchange nutrients. So while they are extremely dangerous for humans and pets, they are very beneficial, even necessary partners of the trees.
Even though most wild mushrooms are okay to eat it’s recommended they aren’t given to kids, the elderly, or sick people, since their resistance may be lower.
The best ways to stay safe; eat mushrooms from a grocery store, join a mycological society, or follow the advice of “when in doubt, throw it out.”
If you think you’ve eaten a poisonous mushroom call us poison control at 1-800-222-1222 right away.
