The mushroom season is in full swing. Since July 1, 2025, nearly 500 poisoning have already been reported in France, according to the National Food Safety Agency (ANSES). Each year, the same vigilance is required: confusion or preparation error may be enough to cause sometimes serious poisoning.
In 2024, more than 1,400 poisoning identified
Last year, 1,400 poisoning by mushrooms were reported to the anti -poison centers between July and December. The month of November was the most critical, while usually October concentrates the most case.
The majority of poisoning are digestive: abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. But some evolve towards severe forms affecting the liver or kidneys. In 2024, 23 serious cases had been reported, without death.
The causes are known: confusion between a edible species and a toxic fungus, consumption of a damaged fungus, poorly preserved or insufficiently cooked. ANSES also alerts to the use of recognition applications on smartphone, causing frequent errors.
No wild mushrooms for children
The agency recalls that young children should not be used as wild mushrooms. Their more fragile body makes intoxications particularly dangerous. Seniors and pregnant women are also considered to be audiences at risk.
In case of digestive symptoms after a meal based on mushrooms picked, it is imperative to quickly contact an anti -poison center or on the 15th. Signs may appear up to 12 hours after ingestion.
How to pick mushrooms without risk?
- Pick up only the mushrooms you know perfectly;
- If in doubt, have the harvest checked by a pharmacist or a mycology association;
- Never give mushrooms picked up to young children;
- Do not rely on recognition applications on smartphone;
- Transport the mushrooms to a wicker basket, never in a plastic bag;
- Cook each species separately for at least 20 minutes;
- Keep mushrooms in the refrigerator and consume them within 48 hours.
ANSES brings together these good practices each year to remind amateurs that picking, if it is a pleasure, must remain an activity under high vigilance.
